Frances Lillian Chaney

Frances Lillian Chaney, 97, of Accokeek, MD passed away on Wednesday December 14, 2016. Born on Saturday, June 14, 1919 in Philadelphia, PA. She was the eldest daughter of the late Van Ness Stephens and Sarah Ann Stevens. When she was in her teens her family moved to Washington DC. This is where she met the love of her life Elmer Fred Chaney. They married Tuesday July 13th 1940 at St Mark’s Episcopal Church, Washington DC. From their union James, Kathleen and Randy were born. Frances was a good wife and mother. In 1948 Frances and Elmer purchased property in Accokeek MD. Along with family they fell the trees clearing the land to build a house. Frances and Elmer created a home and place where everyone was welcome. Frances was the type of person that would help anyone. We always had a garden. If mom knew someone in the neighborhood could use anything out of the garden one off of us kids would go down the street with a bag to give to them. In her later years the neighbors returned her kindness many times over, Ms Chaney as most call her was beloved by all. Frances had an active life. She worked for Prince Georges Board of Education in the cafeteria as a baker. She was a Girl Scout Leader, Sunday School Teacher, Red Cross Volunteer, and loved to crochet and knit. Frances has for years made scarves, mittens, hats, baby sweaters/hats which she gave to the church. Her church gave them to people that needed them. Frances was working on a hat the day before she passed. Always thoughtful of others. A big joy to her during her illness was when family members visited and she would have them go through her hats and choose one. What Frances would want each of us to remember about her, is her love of family. She took great care of her younger siblings all her life. It was so very hard for her to know she was the last one. She wondered what she had ever done to be last. Personally knowing Frances, “She was given a job and she did it well.” Frances, along with her parents, are predeceased by her Husband, Elmer F. Chaney. Brothers, Robert (Bob) Stephens, and Richard (Dick) Stephens. Sisters, Caroline (Carrie) Cochran, Gilberta (Gil) Noworyta and Geraldine (Jean) Greene. Frances is survived by her Children, James Chaney, Kathleen Chaney, and Randy Chaney. 11 Grandchildren, and 20 Great-Grandchildren. Also her special friends, Pat Briscoe, Joyce Taylor, and Judy Cassidy. A viewing will take place at Providence – Fort Washington United Methodist Church, 10610 Old Fort Road, Fort Washington, MD, 20744 on Thursday, December 22, 2016 from 10 am until time of funeral service at 11 am. Interment will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery, Washington DC. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Frances Lillian Chaney please visit our Sympathy Store.