Frances Kennedy

Frances J. Kennedy, 91, of Marianna, passed away peacefully Friday, September 18, 2026 in her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born January 29, 1935 in Pitt Gas, a daughter of the late Peter and Antonia Walensa Pechulis. Frances was a 1953 graduate of West Bethlehem High School. Following graduation she worked for RCA in Canonsburg. In 1956 she met her husband and the love of her life, Odey J. Kennedy. They were united in marriage March 1,1958 in Winchester, Va. Together they were the loving parents of James Henry Kennedy (Jamie), Kelly Ann Stepp (Charles), David John Kennedy (Beverly), and Amy Lynn Kanalis(Michael). Frances was preceded in death by her beloved son, Jamie, who was tragically lost at the age of five; and her loving husband, Odey, in 1982. Frances was the loving grandmother of Jarred Lee Stepp (Nicole), Joshua Kennedy Stepp (Cheyenne), Sara Elizabeth Ryan (Matthew),Caitlyn Kennedy Kanalis and Mikayla Carolin Kanalis; and the loving great-grandmother of Izabella Rose Stepp, Scarlett Olivia Stepp, Sawyer Kennedy Ryan, and Finnegan Lee Ryan.

Frances was a strong,courageous and hard-working woman. Following the loss of her husband she continued raising her children, David and Amy who were still at home. She was deeply devoted to her children and grandchildren and loved them unconditionally.

Frances was preceded in death by her sisters, Mary Pechulis, Rose Pechulis, and Elizabeth Pechulis. She is survived by her sister, Helen Pechulis and sister, Anna Berg (John), with whom she was very close. She is also survived by her niece, Jackie Keener (Ron); and great-nieces, Paige Keener and Jordan Keener.

Frances was a devout member of Sts Mary and Ann Catholic Church until its closing in 2019. In her younger years she served on the altar society and remained active for many years while it was in existence. In later years before the church closed she regularly attended weekday Mass and participated in the monthly breakfast following church cleaning. After Sts. Mary and Ann closed she attended St. Katherine Drexel Parish in Richeyville until she could no longer drive. Her faith was the hallmark of her strength and endurance. She watched Mass on television each week and prayed daily until her death.

Frances worked in the school cafeteria at Bethlehem Center for 31years retiring in 2004. She loved her work and the hundreds of children, as well as their children whom she came to know over the years. She was blessed with many years of friendship with several coworkers who became lifelong friends. Frances was also blessed with several dear and close friends who survive her, especially Arlene Sawicky, her closest and dearest friend with whom she spoke daily.

Frances was an excellent cook and baker; She prepared countless homemade dishes and baked goods for her family. Halupki and green bean soup were her family favorites and her pies, cakes, bread and buns were loved by all. She took great pride in teaching her culinary skills to her grandchildren, who are also accomplished cooks and bakers. The tradition of Sunday family dinners at her home shared nearly every week with her children and grandchildren until her death remains one of her many loving legacies.

Frances was also gifted in the art of crochet-ing, creating many afghans throughout her lifetime as well as numerous lap blankets, which she generously donated to veterans until her eyesight began to fail. She also hand quilted several beautiful quilts.

Frances possessed a deep knowledge of local history and was often sought out by others for her knowledge and recollections. She will be lovingly remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and cherished friend. She was a trusted confidant whose kindness, wisdom and attentive ear brought comfort and encouragement to many. Her love, strength and gentle spirit will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Amedysis Hospice, especially Etta Main, Donna Naser, and Lacey Shipman, for their support and compassionate care of Frances during her final days. The family also wishes to thank Dr. Rebecca Plute, whose many years of devoted care for Frances were deeply appreciated. In her final months and days, Dr.Plute was never more than a phone call away and made more than one house call. Her compassion and dedication to Frances and her family will always be remembered  with sincere grattitude

Family and friends will be received Monday, September 21, from 2 to 8 p.m in the Nichol Funreal Home, 1873 East Maiden Street, Washington. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, September 22, at 10a.m. in St. Katherine Drexel Parish in Richeyville followed by Internment at Sts. Mary and Ann Cemetery, Marianna