Frances Louis Gratz-Searcy

Fran Gratz Searcy was a warm and loving person, and she lit up the room wherever she went. She was born on November 11, 1924, and passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on November 26, 2016. She was a passionate Master gardener, tap dancer, dog-lover, people person, and exceptional volunteer. Fran's interest in all religions led her to not only be a devout member of the Catholic Church, but she also took classes at the local synagogue. One of her proudest accomplishments was being named 2016 Volunteer of the Year from the Arkansas Gerontological Society, chosen from many volunteers across the state. She volunteered for the Maumelle Wellness Center since their inception 11 years ago, both as a chef twice a month and as a porter weekly. She also volunteered monthly at Our House homeless shelter and at her church, the Cathedral of St. Andrew. There is no doubt that Fran will be greatly missed by so many family and friends both in Arkansas and Maryland. She leaves behind her beloved family members: daughters, Linda Jaynes (Tom) and Cathy Brodsky (fiance - Paul Costanzo); step-daughter, Martha Searcy Rose; grandsons: David Lawrence Tucker, Randy Tucker, David Brodsky and Alex Brodsky (Maggie Mattu); only granddaughter, Rachel Brodsky; beloved nephew, Bennie Green; six great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren; and many nephews, nieces, extended family and friends. Funeral Mass will be held at the Cathedral of St. Andrew, 617 Louisiana Street, Little Rock, Arkansas 72201, (501 )374-2794 on Saturday, December 3rd at 1 p.m., with viewing at noon and burial immediately following the service at Salem Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Roller-Drummond Funeral Home, (501) 455-5800. Donations in Fran's memory can be made to any of the following: Our House, P.O. Box 34155, Little Rock, Ark. 72203 or online at www.ourhouseshelter.org; Maumelle Senior Wellness Center, 550 Edgewood Dr., Suite 400, Maumelle, Ark. 72113; or Pulaski County Master Gardeners, 2901 W Roosevelt Rd, Little Rock, Ark. 72204. Please note that donations are in memory of Fran Gratz Searcy. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/drummond.