Frances M. Matheson

Frances M. Matheson was born July 23, 1924 in Bellingham, WA, the only child of Norman and Ethyl Davis and passed away peacefully on November 6, 2014 in Bellingham at Whatcom Hospice House. She is survived by her loving husband, constant companion and best friend Earl Matheson whom she married August 23, 1947; they shared 67 wonderful years together. She will also be greatly missed by her four children, Mike (Penny) Matheson, Ethyl (Richard) Ryan, Norma (Rick) Pepperworth and Debbie (Mitch) Clarke, 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. We are thankful that we were able to celebrate her 90th birthday together last July. Fran was a special wife, mother, neighbor and friend to all she graced with her unconditional love. Family always came first in her mind and most people she met were invited in as extended family. Fran and Earl raised their family in Everson where they lived for many years, enjoying their neighbors and friends who they held as dear. They also enjoyed many years of travel together and spent winters in their home in Desert Hot Springs. They worked hard together to build a “penthouse” cabin in Winthrop, WA, which served as a getaway for all and they hosted many happy memories there. Skagit River Woods was also a gathering place for years as well as their apartments in Lynden. Warm hospitality and loving kindness was extended wherever Fran’s home was. Fran’s home and heart were always open to any that needed a listening ear, encouraging smile or a shared cup of coffee or cookie (which was her favorite). Many memories will be cherished but the best seemed to be around the kitchen table. Somehow she had the ability to make everyone feel like a special person and that it was o.k. to be yourself. Fran also loved her church family at Nooksack Christian Fellowship where she served with joy for many years. Even in her last years she would still make the rounds after church service with her walker to say hello and welcome the newcomers or shy ones and have a chat with them one-on-one. Fran had a good sense of humor, even when things were challenging. She enjoyed sharing life and relationships and most importantly her love for her Lord Jesus Christ. Her daily prayers for her loved ones often kept her up late at night. She believed this was the reason she was still with us even after many health challenges. Mom, rejoice in your new home, we can see you singing and dancing with that new body and visiting freely with those you love. No need to rush, you have all eternity to enjoy. We will meet you there. Visitation will be held at Westford Funeral Home from 2-4 PM on Thursday, November 13th. A Celebration of Fran’s life will be held at Nooksack Christian Fellowship, 201 Jackson St. in Nooksack, WA at 2 PM on Friday, November 14th. A reception will follow at the church.