Frances Crawford Upham

May 18, 1940 - October 10, 2010
Frances Crawford Upham


Frances Crawford Upham was born in Birmingham, AL on May 18, 1940 and died peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Sunday, October 10, 2010 in Wilmington, NC.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Captain Saxton D. Crawford, Jr. and Gladys Groom Crawford as well as her brother, Saxton D. Crawford, III and sister, Lillian E. Grove, all of Birmingham, AL.

To say that Franny was full of life is an understatement. She shared that enthusiasm and joy with all who came inside her orbit. She touched the hearts of those that were in her care, will be mourned by numerous friends and the many children she guided. Her love was shinny and bright and lit up the world. She had the gift of making everyone feel special and important, including strangers. She brought the most unlikely people together and made it work. Every day was a celebration. God now has an angel that will invite everyone to dance.

She is survived by her brothers, Kirk Crawford and Rick Crawford; sisters, Chryssie McBrayer, Mary Kent, Jeanne Crawford and Martha Crawford-Kerrins; her children, Stacia Crawford , Kimberly and Mike England, James and Melissa Upham, and Heather and Joey LeBlanc; her grandchildren, Joey, Gavin and Val LeBlanc, Madison England and Vyolet Upham; in addition to the multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins and all the extend family, related and not.

Services will be held at St. James Parish, downtown Wilmington, NC, on Friday, October 15 at 10 a.m. with a reception to follow at the church.

Please share memories and condolences by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Burial and Cremation Service, 1535 S 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • October 19, 2010
    Janet Gilbert says:
    To Franny's Children: I met your Mom once at Herb and Jeanne's when she came to visit and laughed for a solid hour! She offered to Nanny my girls, now 15 and 17 ! Her light is shining on all of you. Blessings, Janet Gilbert

  • October 11, 2010
    Rick and Paula Perkins says:
    Our prayers and condolences go to the Family. Francie was a fun lady and we were blessed to get to know her.

  • October 13, 2010
    Ann Masters says:
    Martha, My prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. I loved the obit - it gave me a feel for who Franny was.

  • October 13, 2010
    Brandi & Mark Scott says:
    Kim, we are very sorry to hear about your loss. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.

  • October 14, 2010
    Linda Rice says:
    What a warm and funny lady Francie was. She made me laugh the first time I met her and when I think of her, I can see her big smile and sparkling eyes. I know she will be missed by those close to her and I wish her and her family peace. God Bless Her!