Barbara J. Frank, 86, of Harrisville, NY, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2024, in Charlotte, NC. She was born on June 10, 1938, in Harrisville, NY, to the late Lee Rose and Dorothy Lewis. Barbara was lovingly raised by her grandparents, Carl and Eva VanBrocklin, who became her guardians from birth.
A proud member of the Harrisville Central High School Class of 1955, Barbara continued her education at Mercy Nursing School in Watertown, NY. After completing her training that included rotations in Ogdensburg and Brooklyn, she graduated in 1957 as a Registered Nurse. Barbara devoted over 30 years of compassionate care to patients at Mercy Hospital in Watertown, touching the lives of countless individuals and their families.
Barbara married the love of her life, Clyde (Sam) Frank Jr., on June 10, 1961, at St. Francis Solanus Church in Harrisville, NY. Their 63-year marriage was a testament to love, faith, and devotion. Together, they raised seven children: Michael John, Michelle Rene (and her husband Rick Harriman), Lynne Marie (and her husband Amadeo De Jesus), Julie Anne, Scott William (and his wife Deborah), Christopher Stephen (and his wife Andrea), and Danielle Elizabeth (and her husband Michael Taylor). Barbara also leaves behind her sister-in-law Mary Alice Frank and 16 beloved grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren who were the light of her life.
Barbara's heart was forever tied to the Adirondacks, where she and Sam owned and operated Evergreen Acres Christmas Tree Farm from 1978 to 2001. A skilled artisan, Barbara crafted Christmas wreaths that adorned the homes of many families for decades. She was a longtime communicant at St. Francis Solanus Church and an active member of the Red Hat Society, where she enjoyed the camaraderie of her dear friends. Barbara’s life was filled with the simple joys of nature, reading, and the cherished moments spent watching wildlife around her beautiful log home. She was deeply grateful for her family and their shared memories.
A funeral mass for Barbara will be held at St. Francis Solanus Church in Harrisville on Monday, November 25, 2024, at 11:00 am, with Father Manford officiating. Visitation will be held prior to mass on Monday, November 25, 2024, from 8:30 - 10:30 am at Frary Funeral Home in Harrisville. Following the funeral mass, Barbara will be laid to rest at Harrisville Cemetery.
Barbara's radiant smile, unwavering love for her family, and her zest for life have left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, devotion, and joy will live on in the hearts of her loved ones.
Online condolences may be made at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.