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Francie A. Riley, 68, passed away April 24, 2016 at Midland Hospice following her third bout of cancer. She was born in Topeka, November 1, 1948 to Frank and Johann Forrestt. Francie graduated from Highland Park High School and from Washburn University with a journalism degree. She wrote for The Topeka Capital Journal and for Topeka Magazine. For several years she was a real estate salesperson. In her 20's she was a model. Most recently she was the Communication Specialist at First Presbyterian Church until September 2015 when she retired for health reasons. Francie married John C. Riley, Valentine Day 1979. They later divorced. Francie treasured nature, books, PBS, cooking, her fellow staff members at church and her beloved volunteers; but above all she loved her children and grandchildren. Francie's grandchildren were her joy and delight. She surrounded herself with them at every opportunity, non-occasions, holidays, birthdays and any weekend possible. She was a beauty, not only in looks but in character and compassion. Francie is survived by her children, Tiffany and J. C. Riley, grandchildren Isabel, Jeweliana and Sophia Munoz; Michaeyla and Jaxson Ortiz; and Konnor Riley. Also surviving are her brothers, Jon Forrestt and Tim Forrestt of Berryton, her sister Debbie Forrestt of Phoenix, AZ, numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of friends. Francie was cremated. Memorial service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 27, at First Presbyterian Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Francie's Grandchildren's Educational Fund, c/o Alliance Bank. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/cjonline/obituary.aspx?n=francie-riley&pid=179748386#sthash.n77MUfSW.dpuf
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Carol Frost (Engle)
Dan and I are so sorry to learn of Francie's passing. When we knew her, she was a bubbly, fun and always a "hoot" to be around. We both liked her a lot. RIP Francie!
Linda L. McAtee (Massey)
So very sorry to hear of Francie's passing. She was a beautiful person and fun to be around. R.I.P. Francie
Christine Power
I was so sad to hear of Francie's passing. She was beautiful inside and out. She loved her kids and grandchildren. I was hoping to visit with her at the next reunion. Another friend gone too soon. You will be missed for generations!
Chris Power
Jim Pressler
I'm sure that we all will miss that beautiful smile and contagious happy personality. R.I.P.
Nancy Pierson (Daugherty)
So sorry to hear about Francie. She was always smiling and happy. RIP dear classmate.
Cheryl Wanke (Donaldson)
Francie's spirit will be sadly missed - Rest in Peace
Jim Brenton
I am saddened to hear of Francie's passing. She was a wonderful friend and nice lady. My thoughts are with her family and they have my sincere condolences.
Carol Brown (Blissing)
So sad, her light will be missed by all. She was always such a ball of energy, it is difficult to realize she is gone.
Judy Fenwick (James)
I have been wanting to post since I heard of Francie's passing but it's been very emotional for me. Francie was one of my best friends in high school. She was my "coming-of-age" friend with whom I shared all my secrets and she shared her secrets with me.
I wanted to share a few memories: Francie and I joined a bunch of clubs we only attended once so we would be in the yearbook photos. We went on a double date out to dinner once and she ordered shrimp. Apparently she had never eaten shrimp before because she was complaining about how tough they were....she was eating the whole shrimp, tail and all. We laughed about that for a long time. I remember going to her house to make peanut brittle for a school function and her mom was so nice. Peanut brittle was not so good but lots more laughs. We called each other on the phone almost every night. She was the Maid of Honor at my wedding.
One night we were leaving Pizza Hut. Francie got in my car and was waiting for me when apparently a boy who thought she was cute (and she was very cute) opened her door and tried to kiss her. She claims this unwanted kiss caused her to slide over the the driver's side of the car and she vomited all down the window which was up, not down. We then drove to the car wash and tried to clean my car but everytime you rolled the window up and down the evidence was there. She has asked for my forgiveness several times over the years. Well, Francie, I forgave you the moment it happened. I loved her like a sister. I was so looking forward to seeing her at the reunion. Her beautiful spirit will be missed.
Rest in peace my dear, lovely friend. I will never forget you.
Donna Briscoe (Paige)
I am so sorry to hear of Francie's passing. I have thought of her so often since our last reunion and I always smiled, loving her energy and upbeat nature. She will be sorely missed.