Frances Manone Puddy
April 7, 1933 - November 10, 2023
For half a century, the Puddy home on Queen Anne was a welcoming place for anyone seeking the company of a spare mom, grandma, or friend. Frances Manone Puddy, the heart of the home, passed away peacefully on Nov. 10, 2023. She was 90.
Frances Cresswell was born on April 7, 1933, in Salt Lake City, Utah. From early on, Frances shone academically. In 1950, she graduated third in her class from
Roosevelt High School in Port Angeles, Washington. From multiple scholarship offers, she selected Washington State College, where she excelled as a top debater, the senior class secretary and as a proud member of Pi Kappa Delta sorority. She graduated in 1954 with a degree in economics, earning the highest honors.
Frances married LaVern Buchanan Puddy on June 30, 1954, in a borrowed dress that spoke to her practicality. LaVern designed and built multiple apartment complexes with the support of Frances’ business acumen and together they made a significant mark on the Queen Anne landscape and developed a thriving business.
Family was the cornerstone of Frances’ life. They raised four Grizzlies through Queen Anne High School in a home that was a favorite gathering spot for friends and a launchpad for countless excursions and celebrations.
She faced life's adversities with her characteristic determination and strength, traits she instilled in her four children. She is survived by her husband, LaVern Puddy; her daughter, Lisa Michele Puddy; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Frances is preceded in death by her son, Raymond Scott Puddy, and two daughters, Paige Marie Puddy and Linda Lucile Puddy.
A memorial gathering will be held at Mount St. Pleasant Cemetery on Wed. Nov. 22 at noon with a reception to follow. Memorial contributions can be made to The Seattle Opera, an organization close to Frances' heart.
Come sit with us awhile & share our sorrow.
Though you weep, share too, the joyful memories.
Look in your heart; in truth you weep for that which has been your delight.
For joy and sorrow are inseparable.