SUFFOLK—Frances Pauline Wysocki Murray, 80, peacefully passed away on October 10, 2023, at her residence in Harmony at Harbourview Assisted Living Center. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she was the beloved daughter of the late Francis and Rose Wysocki.

Frances's family relocated to Norfolk, Virginia after her father was transferred while serving in the US Navy. Frances received her early education at Blessed Sacrament School and graduated from Norfolk Catholic High School in 1961. Continuing her academic journey, she attended Frederick College, where she met her future husband, Tex, and earned her degree in 1965.

Following her graduation, Frances embarked on a teaching career, dedicating her time and passion to Suffolk City Schools and Portsmouth Catholic Elementary School from 1966 through 1980. She treasured the memories she shared with her students and fondly reminisced about those days.

Fueling her love for education, Frances later joined Monette Information Systems, where she authored manuals and taught computer systems to doctors' offices across Virginia. She then transitioned to the role of practice manager at Ghent Medical, concluding her esteemed career at The Breast Care Center in Portsmouth, Virginia, in the same position. Throughout her professional journey, Frances left an indelible impact and garnered respect from colleagues and patients alike.

Beyond her professional achievements, Frances was an active volunteer who devoted herself to various causes. She served as the President of Kappa Sigma Phi, her sorority at Frederick College, and played an instrumental role in organizing joyous reunions for her college friends as a member of the Frederick College Reunion Committee. Frances was a founding member of the Church of the Resurrection, a dedicated Parish Council member, and served as a Eucharistic Minister. Additionally, she passionately supported Windsor High School as a Coach's wife and an ardent fan. Frances also dedicated service to support Churchland Little League in her role as Team Mom for many seasons. She also selflessly offered her time as a Volunteer Phone Counselor for TRIS (Tidewater Rape Information Services) and actively participated in the Hilton Women's Club. During the Christmas season, Frances showcased her creativity as a Bowmaker extraordinaire at Coleman's Nursery. Most recently, she served as the Chair of the Welcoming Committee at Harmony at Harbourview, where she made new residents feel at home.

In addition to a legacy of kindness, dedication, and service, Frances leaves behind cherished memories. Known for her welcoming spirit and caring nature, she held her friendships dear. In addition to the ladies from her days at Frederick College, Frances treasured her very dear friend Linda, and spent many hours on the telephone sharing the tears, laughter and joy of life.  Frances enjoyed playing bridge and did so with the same bridge group for nearly 60 years. In retirement Frances added Mahjong to her card game repertoire and continued this game with new friends at Eagle Harbor and then Harmony Harborview.  She cherished any reason to gather with friends and family, ever the hostess and entertainer, including an 80th birthday celebration in Isle of Palms, SC with her daughters and dear college friend, Shirley.

Frances will forever remain in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known her. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 47 years, Edward A. "Tex" Murray. She is survived by her three children: Sandy Burton (John) of Suffolk, Brian Murray (Mimi) of Chesapeake, and Susan Dixson (Will) of Charleston, SC. Her memory will also be cherished by her six grandchildren: Michael Burton (Tiffany), Megan Volnoff (Trip), Amber Beagle (Bud), Lexi Murray (Davis Maio), Liam Dixson, and Mary "Riza" Dixson. Additionally, she leaves behind five great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.

The family would like to thank the loving and supportive therapists at Powerback Rehab who went out of their way daily to encourage Frances on her road to recovery.  She cherished each and every member of the therapy team.  In addition, we thank her special friends on the Harmony Staff who welcomed her into their community and took the time to make a difference.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 16, at Church of the Resurrection, 3501 Cedar Lane, Portsmouth. The family will receive friends one hour prior at the church. Entombment at Meadowbrook Mausoleum in Suffolk will follow the Mass.

Messages of condolences can be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that charitable gifts be made in honor of Frances's life to an animal rescue society of your choice. Frances had a deep affection for her many cats and dogs, and she loved every animal she encountered.