Frances Grace Grondin of Moncton passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at the Dr. Georges L. Dumont UHC. Born in Worcester Massachusetts, USA, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Anthony and Rose Esther (Belculfine) Franchi.
Frances’ first career was as a registered nurse working initially in the USA and later in Moncton where she settled with her husband. She received her private pilot license in 1960 and her commercial pilot’s license in 1966. Frances was the first female to obtain a commercial pilot’s license at the Moncton Flight School. A trophy named after Frances remains at the school, recognizing the most outstanding female pilot of the year. In the 70’s, Frances became a freelance journalist for the local newspaper. She later returned to university to complete her law degree in 1982 and worked as a lawyer until her retirement.
She was a member of Women’s Probus Club Southeast NB, as well as Project Linus Moncton which donates handmade blankets to children in crisis. Frances was a past member of the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Moncton Club and she served on the Board of Directors for Marine Atlantic for 10 years.
She will be greatly missed by her two sons: Jean Paul "JP" (Claire) of Dieppe and Joseph (Gwen) of Moncton; one daughter, Rosanne Grondin Gorber (Bruce) of Moncton; one sister Marie Antoinette DeFalco (late Robert) of New Hampshire USA; four grandchildren: Jennifer, Jacqueline, Mitchell and Alexandre; five great grandchildren: Jasper, Nikka, Dahlia, Xavier and Dallas; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
She was predeceased by the love of her life Dr. J. W. Georges Grondin (2015), one son Georges (1996): two brothers Anthony and Joseph.
Frances’ family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Fidelia Silva, Dr. Marc Savoie, Dr. Linda LeBlanc, Dr. Bernard Godin and the staff of 3F and 4F at the Dr. Georges Dumont Hospital.
As per her request, there will be no visitation or funeral. Frances will be resting in Our Lady of Calvary R.C. Cemetery in Dieppe. Cremation services were entrusted to Frenette Funeral and Cremation Centre, 88 Church Street, Moncton (506-858-1900).
Words of comfort may be made at www.frenettefuneralhome.com