Profile photo of Frances Martin

Frances Martin

MayMay 30th, 1949 MayMay 1st, 2025
Frances Martin

Dance yourself silly!

Obituary

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Frances Martin, a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished grandmother, who passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025 in her home surrounded by her husband and family. Frances lived a full life filled with love, laughter, and will be missed by all that knew her.

A distinguished retired Colonel Officer in the United States Air Force, Frances was well-known and respected for her military career. She cherished spending time with loved ones, particularly when music and dancing were involved. Together with her husband Rick, Frances enjoyed traveling the world and sought out any opportunity to have good conversation and wine.

Frances is survived by her husband, Rick, her children, Clark and Ben, and her beloved grandchildren. In keeping with France’s wishes, there will be a private family memorial service at her Florida homestead. Instead of flowers, the family suggests honoring Frances by listening to one of her favorite songs and dancing joyfully.
 

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December 30, 2025
I met Fran in 1988 in the housing office at Rhein Main AFB, DE. We immediately became friends. We had many adventures in Europe , with somehow getting lost on multiple occasions
Fran was my rock when my husband suddenly died at Edwards AFB,
Fran flew out and drove back with me and my 9 year child. to Florida What a God send !.
Clark and Ben, my last conversation I had with your mom was about how proud she was a the great strong men you had become.
Rick, you were the love of Fran's life
Keep on dancing Fran
Robyne Rentz
May 23, 2025
Fran, an awesome friend, was a whirlwind of fun, laughter, dancing and friendship! I first met Fran in the early 80s at AFMPC. Always the professional, she achieved a life of public service, in uniform, and then after retirement, in her community; she was an amazing woman, and an outstanding leader!

From working together throughout our careers, to our many adventures, to GGA, and to all the fun times together, Fran’s gift of friendship will forever be treasured and cherished. Fran, a wise, smart, humorous, and very caring dear friend with a quick wit, a great laugh and ready smile, will be missed by all her friends!
Sheila Earle
May 22, 2025
I loved working with Fran. She was an amazing person and professional military officer. She always treated everyone with respect regardless of their rank. Even when working with her as a civilian contractor after military retirement, I still chose to salute her. I will always have the fondest memories of her.
Bill Reese
May 21, 2025
Fran was so much more than a title—she was a force of nature, a woman of boundless spirit and unwavering heart. A devoted wife, a loving mother, a cherished grandmother, a steadfast friend, a “sister” in every way that mattered. A leader who inspired, a mentor who guided, a team builder who brought people together. An engaged citizen, a Harley enthusiast, a connoisseur of fine wine, an explorer of the world. She embraced beauty in all its forms, radiating it herself, inside and out. The most free-spirited dancer to ever grace the floor, and a proud, dedicated Air Force professional.

I met Fran in the 80s when we both served at the Air Force Military Personnel Center, and from that moment on, I was privileged to call her my dear, dear friend. From sipping wine on her beloved porch to riding Harleys with Rick and his riding buddy—her stunning purple leathers a sight to behold—to exchanging playful baseball banter with her and Wendy over our treasured teams. Those priceless moments spent with her and Rick during our Florida travels, year after year, will forever be etched in my heart. She shared the best advice, the deepest wisdom, the loudest laughter, and the most heartfelt support.

Rest peacefully, dear Fran. Your spirit, your love, your light—none of it will ever fade.
Cherie Zadlo
May 21, 2025
My heart breaks at the loss of my wonderful friend and yet it swells at the incredible blessing Fran Martin was in my life. We go way back to our Lieutenant and Staff Sergeant days (1979). She and Rick were such an amazing couple. I shared dinner at their table many times in Virginia and Alabama and Germany and Texas and Washington DC and Florida—and it always felt like home. Rest in peace my friend. You truly did make this world a better place.
Debbie Canjar Kehl
May 21, 2025
A great American and AF officer is at Peace. Sad news about a good friend. Many memories for sure but best one is our party cry of Yellow Rock, silly but it was ours.
Ken and Sally Spires
May 20, 2025
I first met Fran in 1983 which was the start of a life-long friendship filled with adventures, laughs, struggles, & good times. Fran was hard working, dedicated and made a difference in our Air Force & our nation. Her laugh was infectious & often announced she had arrived. Oh how I miss that laugh, so will try to remember to laugh often & loudly in her honor!
KC McClain
May 19, 2025
Fran was my friend & colleague throughout our Air Force careers. Her professionalism, integrity & service to others made her an amazing leader!
After retirement our friendship only grew stronger as we shared memories & enjoyed our gatherings with other AF friends. She will live on in my memory as a joyful, special person! Get them dancing in heaven, Fran!
Elaine Parker
May 18, 2025
I was honored to take care of Mrs.Martin for two years down here in Florida. We had a wonderful time together always laughing and having a good time I will truly miss you.
Amanda Whitson
May 18, 2025
My aunt Fran was always the life of the party, She truly loved to make people smile and laugh. She will be truly missed. Thank you aunt Fran for being an example of a strong woman in my life.
Eileen
May 18, 2025
I don't know who took that video of Mom dancing, but those are some of my fondest memories of her. She taught me to dance—and encouraged me to get out on the floor, even when no one else was. If I hadn't had the courage to dance, I would never have met my wife. Now it's my turn to pass the tradition on to our children. Love you, Mom.


Clark Harris
May 17, 2025
I only knew Fran in her last months but is wonderful to see her up moving and shaking. Love this lady.
Deborah Mallory

Favorites


What was Frances's favorite Color?
Purple
What was Frances's favorite Sports Team?
Chicago Cubs
What was Frances's favorite Drink?
Wine lover of all types "as long as it is wet and pours"
What was Frances's favorite way to exercise?
Dancing
What was Frances's favorite  Song?
Take My Hand Precious Lord 
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