Frances L. Norman, 93 of rural Wabash, Indiana died at 6:48 pm Friday, August 28, 2026 at The Waters of Wabash East, surrounded by her family. She was born December 22, 1932, in Lawrence County, Illinois, to Franklin Strange and Bessie (Rosborough) Strange Metz.
A 1950 graduate of Lagro High School, Frances continued her education later in life, earning her BS from Huntington College in 1973 and her Master’s degree from IU Kokomo in 1976. Her dedication to education shaped her career: she taught elementary school at Southwood Elementary School for 15 years, and after retiring, continued teaching at Calvary Chapel Christian School, where her patience, warmth, and steady encouragement touched countless young lives.
Frances married Kenneth A. Norman on May 30, 1952, at the Lagro Methodist Church. Their marriage of more than 50 years was grounded in faith, partnership, and family until Kenneth’s passing on January 26, 2003.
She was a woman of creativity and quiet delight who enjoyed stenciling, drying flowers, reading, and flower gardening. Frances attended the New Song Church in Wabash. Her faith and her family remained central throughout her life, and she loved spending time with her family.
Frances is survived by her five sons: Randy (Linda) Norman of Wilkinson, Indiana, Gary (Kristie) Norman of Wabash, Steve (Brenda) Norman of Brighton, Michigan, Ed (Tim Parnell) Norman of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Brian Norman of Wabash. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 17 great‑grandchildren.
Frances was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her four brothers-Richard Strange, Harold Strange, Carroll Strange, and Charles Strange.
Visitation for family and friends will be from 1-3 pm Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Avenue, Wabash. There will be a funeral service at 3:00 pm, following the visitation, with Randy Norman officiating. Burial will be in Lagro Cemetery.
Preferred memorials are Right to Life, Samaritan Purse, Special Olympics, Red Cross, Salvation Army, or Paralyzed Veterans of America.
The memorial guest book for Frances may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
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