Mary Frances, “Fran” Ashton was born November 29, 1951 in Elmira, NY, a daughter of the late Neil Ashton and Frances (Schaefer) Mason.
After graduation from Southside High School in 1969, Fran graduated from Elmira Business Institute.
On September 9, 1972, she married Rick Welch in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Elmira. Fran was employed by Troy’s District Justice office for over 20 years until retiring in 2007. In earlier years, she was employed by New York State’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Fran was a devoted and very active member of Troy’s St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church.
A loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Fran appreciated times shared with the people she loved. She also was a very organized person and enjoyed many interests including reading, crocheting and playing trivia games.
She was predeceased by her grandson, Benjamin O’Connor and brother, Neil “Rocky” Ashton.
Calling hours are 6 – 8 p.m. Thursday at Pepper Funeral Home, 578 Springbrook Dr. in Canton.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 14, at St. John’s Catholic Church at Exchange and High Streets in Troy.
Burial will be in Oakhill Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, consider memorials to the Janet Weis Children’s Hospital, 100 N. Academy Ave. Danville, PA 17822.
Share condolences at www.pepperfuneralhomes.com