Frances Lee (née Clark) Pepper passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026. She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Minerva Mae Clark, brothers, David Stewart Clark, Kenneth Richard Clark; sisters, Shirley Ann Clark, Marcia Kay Clark and her beloved son, Michael Jay Pepper.
Affectionately known as Frankie, she is survived by her daughters, Christine Lee (John Francis) McCarthy and Lisa Marie (Michael David) Warren; her treasured grandsons, Nicholas Joseph Warren, Maxwell Jay Warren, and John Francis McCarthy V; sister, Linda Lou Clark; ten nieces and nephews; her special friend, Mary Ann Woltz; and many other loving friends and colleagues in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Phoenix, Arizona.
Frankie was deeply devoted to her spiritual growth and lifelong learning. Through this dedication, she cultivated a profound love for herself, God, and those around her.
When her children were in elementary school, Frankie began her professional career in education administration as the first secretary to the principal at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Elementary School in Belmont, Michigan. She went on to spend the remainder of her career at GRCC, starting in an entry-level role and ultimately serving as liaison to the President of the College and the Board of Trustees. In this role, Frankie was instrumental in advocating for women and minorities, helping to implement programs that recognized and honored their contributions. She played a key role in developing the Salute to Women program, served on the Minority Council, and influenced the establishment of the Diversity Learning Center. Frankie was a champion for equity, kindness, and inclusion, and for all who knew her.
Frankie inherited her talent for sewing from her mother, Minerva, a professional seamstress. She became an accomplished seamstress herself, lovingly making many of her own clothes as well as matching dresses for Christi and Lisa, and outfits for Michael. Later in life, she and her daughters delighted in creating elaborate Halloween costumes for her three grandsons. Before moving to Porter Hills, Frankie also made cherished Christmas aprons and Christmas tree skirts for her daughters—keepsakes that will be treasured for years to come.
Frankie had a deep love for music and art, both her own creations and those of local artists. She enjoyed road trips, The Rolling Stones, gardening, growing her spirituality, Lake Michigan, and meaningful connections with friends and family. Above all else, the greatest joy of her adult life was her three “baby grands”—Nicholas, Maxwell, and Jack.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at St. Robert of Newminster Catholic Church, 6477 Ada Drive, Ada, Michigan 49301. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Tony Russo presiding.
Memorial contributions in Frankie’s honor may be directed to Emmanuel Hospice, 401 Hall St. SW, Suite 263, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503.
6 Responses
Christi, Lisa and family, our prayers are with you. I was a young child when she became my sister in law and made a large impact on me. She always wanted to make sure I realized women could do anything and have every right as a man. The creativity she shared with your dad in your first home was such fun. She is with Michael now and at peace after a very well lived life.
We were so blessed to have our awesome Aunt Fran in our lives. I just remember having so much fun (and getting in trouble) with my cousin Mike camping and at the house on English. I am so thankful that my mom, Marcia had such a great sister and that I got to be part of some of their adventures. Every time I gave Aunt Fran a hug I felt like I was hugging my precious mom after I lost her. Wow, it felt so good! We will miss you Aunt Fran and thank you for the impact you made, the memories, and your wonderful kids! Our love and prayers go out to all the friends and family at this time!
To Fran‘s family
I am so sorry to hear that she has transitioned into her life beyond. Fran replaced me in the position with President Calkins when I left the college to go to another position. She was such a pleasant person to work with. We did a number of skits together for the president and the superintendent of schools to celebrate, birthdays, or promotions. May she rest in peace
I was a Board of Trustee member for 22 years. Fran Pepper became a friend to all of us. So sorry for your loss . Please know she was talented, wise and so much fun. Godspeed,
Terri Handlin Mullugan. ❤️
During my time as a member of the Board of Trustees at GRCC, “Frankie” was for many years a valued and trusted member of “our band of brothers and sisters”. I loved her sense of humor, her dedication to the College and the fun we had together. My condolences to the whole family. She will be greatly missed. May you rest in peace my friend.
My dear cousins, my deepest sympathies for the loss of your mother. My childhood memories are filled with memories of spending time with you and our extended family. I love the summer vacations that I came to visit you. The great beach camping trips, and learning that “pop” is soda. One of my favorite memories is when Aunt Fran wanted to give me a permanent the same day that I was leaving on a Grayhound bus to Chicago. The permanent turned out great, but we were late and missed the bus. So Aunt Fran drove me to the next scheduled bus stop. This was very important because I needed to be in Chicago in time to make my flight home to California.
All my love to you and yours