Frances Waller

Frances Mason Waller passed away at home on Tuesday, October 1, 2013. Known as Fran or Frannie to her friends, Mrs. Waller was born the youngest of five children on March 12, 1928, in Richmond. Her father was a family doctor born in 1880, her mother the author of two well-regarded historical books. Growing up, Mrs. Waller attended Collegiate School in Richmond and St. Margaret's School in Tappahannock. As a young woman she attended Richmond Professional Institute (later merged with MCV to form VCU), worked as assistant to a beloved blind clergyman, Dr. Cary Montague, and was later employed at Danville's First Citizens bank. In 1950 Mrs. Waller married Princeton graduate and former Navy man Edward Waller, also of Richmond, at historic St. James Episcopal Church in that city. An opening at Dan River brought the young couple to Danville where they became the proud parents of sons Ted and Randy, and daughter Frances (Haertling). In a few years Mr. Waller transferred to the company's New York City office, where he worked in shirting design for some 32 years before Dan River moved the family back -- just six years before retirement. The couple was welcomed back to Danville by old friends as if they'd never left. Raised Episcopalian, Mrs. Waller followed husband Ned into the Presbyterian Church (she a handbell ringer, he a choir tenor); after returning to Danville she attended Epiphany Episcopal and First Baptist Church. Fran was first and foremost a family person. There was nothing she enjoyed more than time with her children and grandchildren. She loved to hear what her grandchildren were doing and celebrating their accomplishments. As a child Fran visited Gloucester Banks every summer with her parents and siblings. Fran and Ned continued to enjoy this time with their children, and as the family grew, continued on with son in-law John and all the grandchildren. This summer Fran was delighted to add future son-in-law Andrew to the gathering. Fran was a lover of gardening, crafts, and books. She loved creating beautiful hooked rugs, and for many years enjoyed the friendship of other ladies in a club that gathers weekly to hook, eat, and socialize. Her gardening talents have brought grace and beauty to the Wallers' downtown home. Full of artwork by and of their extended family, the home has been the scene of many happy gatherings through the years. Fran is survived by her three children; son-in-law John Haertling; grandchildren Susanna Waller, Charlotte Haertling and Zane Haertling; a brother Dr. Lockert Mason of Wilmington, N.C.; and a number of nieces and nephews. Her husband Ned preceded her in death in 2006. The family will receive visitors Saturday, October 5, 2013, from 10:00 to 10:45 AM at First Baptist Church followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church.