Frances M. Darnell, 80 of Merrillville, IN passed away on Wednesday, March 10, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Shirley Bradley. She is survived by her daughters, Lori (Kendall) VanScoyk, Kelly (Robert) Maloney and Connie (Aaron Bensinger) Powell; grandchildren, Agusta (Amanda Autry) Papalambros, Michael (Robin) Powell, Colleen (Josh) Hill and Kevin (Alivia Steinbarth) Maloney; great grandchildren, Alyssa, Nikolas, Tyler, Kyle, Colin, Blake, Hunter, Ryker and Connor; great-great grandchildren, Lincoln and Benjamin; nieces, Diana Bradley and Toni Lessard; nephew, Dale Bradley and many friends.

Visitation services will be held at Kish Funeral Home, 10000 Calumet Ave. Munster, IN, Monday March 15, 2021 from 3:00-6:00 pm with a Service to follow at 6:00 pm by Reverend Geraldine Colvin, Unity Church, officiating.

Frances may have passed into eternity, but the richness of her legacy will impact multiple generations for years to come. Uniquely gifted, she reached the hearts and minds of all who knew her, particularly her family and close friends. Her wit and charm were something to behold. She never missed an opportunity to help where she could or to invest in the lives of others. Frances truly modeled “Be ye kind toon another”. She absolutely loved her daughters, grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family. She was encouraging and fun to be around. Family and friends, enjoyed and benefitted from her presence. She was widely read and because of her love for travel and learning, could speak with knowledge on a host of varied subjects. Frances was a regular at the library and at lectures. She never stopped learning and was delighted to share her findings with whoever would listen. Deeply missed will be her infectious laughter and warm kind words of encouragement or praise. She always tried to remain positive and never speak ill of anyone. A woman of strong faith and spirituality, she led the entire family with grace and love. She knew Christ as her Savior and leaned into the teachings of the scripture to guide her everyday walk. She was pleased to be an active and contributing member of Unity Church and valued the many friendships of the congregation and Reverend Geraldine Colvin.

Fran found her life’s work and passion as an accountant for over 50 years. She had an unbelievable cataloged memory of all things tax and finance related. She was not arrogant about her extensive career or achievements. Humility was a trait of hers that could almost be deceiving if you did not know her. She cared deeply about the need of others and would work long hours to make sure her client’s needs were met on time. She never fully retired but instead insisted on going into the office, even in her later years, to do what she loved doing; helping others. She was notoriously frugal and loved a chance to use a coupon or get a discount. She charmed us with her legendary smile and bright adventurous eyes.

We will all relish forever the dear and treasured memories of a life so well lived; a person who was so strong, so driven and determined to accomplish goals. Yet she was so tender and kind; so loving and forgiving; so good to others. May we all find solace, comfort and strength in her example and might we never forget the lasting impact she had on all of us. We were blessed and honored to have been in her company. We love you Fran. See you in Heaven!

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Calumet Area.