Frances was born in Birmingham, AL, in 1945, to Louise Wise Stamey and Robert Bennett O’Dell Stamey. She graduated from Woodlawn High School, and then the University of Alabama.
Following graduation, she became a flight attendant for American Airlines. It was while living the jet-set life that, in 1967, at a beach party in Pensacola, FL, she met - and later married - then-Lieutenant, USN, Robert D. (Bob) Blake, III. It was love at first sight for Bob, who told his mother later that night that he met “the One”. The couple lived in California, Hawaii, Japan, Alabama, Louisiana and eventually back in Pensacola, having the time of their lives, increasing the size of their family on stops along the way, and making memories wherever they set up home.
Fran was always active in the communities where she lived, through church, her kids’ schools, and later as a middle school teacher. She never met a stranger and was always a gracious hostess. She will be remembered for her love of family, friends, and community, and for a seriously beautiful smile.
She is survived by her husband, Bob Blake; her children, Jennifer Blake, Kevin Blake (Tina), Lisa Peterson (Jeff) and Stephen Blake (Kristen); her five grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The Blakes wish to express our deepest gratitude to Sharon and the Right at Home organization, especially Fran’s devoted caregivers: Lucia, Jessica, Portia, and April. Thank you for your compassion, professionalism, and immeasurable support in caring for our mother.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Gulf Breeze, FL, on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at 11:00 AM. A reception will follow in the Church Parish Hall. A private interment will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery at Pensacola Naval Air Station.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider making a donation to The Alzheimer’s Association.
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