Frances E. Searles

Schenectady – Frances E. Searles, 96, passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at Kingsway Arms Nursing Center. Born October 13, 1928, Frances was predeceased by her parents, Frank and Anna Nye of Schenectady, her husband of 63 years, Norman C. Searles, a son Peter Norman Searles and a grandson, Conar Norman McCown.  Her golden retriever, Barney, was so beloved, he deserves special mention, too.

Frances is survived by a brother, Richard F. Nye (Marie) of Delaware as well as daughters Cynthia “Cyndi” Ricard PhD (John) of Schenectady, NY and Virginia “Ginny” McCown (Jack) of Virginia.  She is also survived by nieces Christine Nye (Jonathan) of New York state, Laurie Cornog (Steven), Karen Cloud (Douglas), Carolyn Nye (Bryan), and Kathy Nye, all of Delaware as well as grandnieces and grandnephews.  Frances had many friends at Kingsway Village Apartments, in the Niskayuna area as well as abroad.  She was a long-time member of St. Helen’s Catholic Church (now St. Kateri) of Niskayuna where she was a Eucharistic Minister for many years.

Frances was a humble leader.  Born to the Greatest Generation, her role as a mother and homemaker was quintessential.  Yet Frances stepped up when the call came.  As a member of several advisory boards for the handicapped during the 1970s and 80s, Frances inspired many with her volunteer spirit, including her daughter, Ginny. Her thoughtful and consistent advocacy was essential in helping pass The Americans with Disabilities Act.

Frances treasured our family’s second home in Edgartown, MA well before her children were born.  Memories of The Vineyard were the happiest.  The anticipation at the end of each school year was special.  Only a handful of children are lucky enough to own these memories as well as to be gifted with so kind and beautiful a mother.  Frances will be remembered always as a singular woman, one of only a few we’re so blessed to have known, met or have had the privilege to call “Mom” or “Aunt Fran.”

In keeping with her wishes, Frances requested there be no funeral or memorial.  Gifts in her memory are welcome and can be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, The GBS/CIDP Foundation (www.gbs-cidp.org) or your local ASPCA. To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.jonesfh.net