Frances Mae Middlemas Stevens passed away in her cherished home of 65 years on May 22, 2023, surrounded by her family and her four-legged pal, Abby. Fran was born to David and Bernice Middlemas on October 20, 1934. The oldest of 6 children, she is survived by one sister, Doris House of Helena MT.
Fran was born and raised on their family farm in the Helena valley where she developed her lifelong passion for gardening. She graduated from Helena High School in 1953 and soon thereafter eloped to Boulder, Montana with her one true love Thomas C. Stevens. Tom and Fran built their home together and lovingly raised four children. She consistently put them before anything else, always taking care of those she loved, and gracious to a fault any time someone came into her heart.
Fran and Tom loved spending their weekends and vacation time with family and friends exploring the Helena mountains and greater Montana area. She enjoyed snowmobiling, camping, fishing, big family gatherings – especially the holidays. Baking with family was always a beloved occurrence.
Fran cherished spending time with her lifelong friends as part of a second-generation “Birthday Club”; as well as attending weekly lunches with close friends.
In her later years she looked forward to working in her flower beds and planting vegetables. Her yard was her happy place, as she remained independent in her life. She insisted on chopping her own wood even at the age of 87.
Being an avid animal lover, her wishes were to forgo any funeral service or flowers in place of donations to the Lewis and Clark Humane Society, which was founded by her father and hero, Sheriff David Middlemas. She would love that her beloved animal friends be remembered.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Tom, a son at birth, her parents, and many family members.
She is survived by son Lester and Sharon Stevens, daughters Leslee and Wayne Effertz, Libby Dearing and spouse Debbi Rhodes and Shelly Stevens.
Her grandchildren: Stephenie and Willy Schauman, Brandon and Brandi Dearing, Zach Stevens and Rachael Wilford, Melissa and Jayson Gray, Thomas and Maraiyha Effertz, Kevin and Sarah Effertz, Ty Stevens, Seth and Brooke Stevens, and great grandchildren Steven, Emily, Teona, Sara, Tel, Tye, Renae, Tiber and Tavyn.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Rhonda Robertson says
Dear Steven’s Family and Friends,
So sorry for the loss of your dear Mother, grandmother, and friend. Fond memories of camping at Pelosi and visits at your house on Montana Avenue. Fran attended my Mother’s funeral four years ago, and we had a nice conversation, it meant a lot to me that she was there. Praying that all the wonderful memories you hold close within your heart will sustain you in the coming days and in time fill it with joy.
My deepest sympathy, Rhonda Strainer Robertson
Cory Bartsch says
Dear Stevens Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Fran was such a wonderful neighbor for 25 years. I always enjoyed our visits over the fence. I’m not sure how many times she had to call us to come get our puppy, Harley, that would escape our yard and go straight over to see her. She was a sweet lady and we will miss her so much. God Bless, Cory, Don, Rian, Kady, and Mike Bartsch
Valerie J Hornsveld says
I was so shocked to see that Frannie had passed. I am so sorry to all of the family. May your memories keep her close to your hearts and help you heal in your loss. She was a great lady and I lived her so. Love you Aunt Val
Gail Briese Zimmer says
Lester. Leslee and Libby
I am sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. She was a wonderful lady. Just this past year I ran into her at Costco. She recognized me and said hi and we visited a while. It had been years since I had seen her, but she looked great. Blessings to you.
Gail
Brett Dearing says
To the Stevens family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Just remembering all the times we were out to the house on Christmas and other holidays and Fran was cooking huge meals and taking care of everyone. Fran was always so nice to me even though Tom was on the other side of me teasing me about girls or something. I also was reminded of memories of going up to stay in the cabin in York that was always so fun to see Tom and Fran busy being hosts to everyone and Fran quietly directing all the action. I’m thankful for all the good memories. Condolences to you all.
Rebekka Dodge says
I am so glad I was able to stay connected to Francis after my parents passed away. She (and her family) were such a connection to my past. My parents were close friends and I have wonderful memories of going to get Christmas trees and hunting. Francis cooked one of the best spaghetti dinners I can remember. My condolences to Lester, Libby, Leslie, and Shelly. I will always remember your parents fondly. I am going to miss your mom. It was always a comfort to me knowing she was there. When you say she was gracious to a fault you really captured who she was.
Darla Flansaas says
Stevens family
So sorry to hear about Fran. She always greeted me with a smile and a hug when ever I would see her. Keep your great memories of her close to your heart. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Robert Middlemas says
I was very sorry to hear of my aunt Frannie passing. It was only later in my life when I had the true opportunity to spend time with her discover who she was. I found in her a kind and caring soul who valued her family above everything. She was engaging in conversation and gracious and very welcoming to me in all respects. I will miss her and I’ll always remember how she made me feel. My heart goes out to her children and immediate family.
Melanie and Bill Rasor says
I’m so very sorry for your loss Frannie’s family! Since the Effertz no longer live at the end of our road I sure have missed seeing Frannie rounding my corner of Bernice and Middlemas and giving me her sweet smile and a big wave. She always had her dog on the front seat next to her too. I didn’t know until now that she was a Middlemas. May she rest in peace!
Linda Grady says
I’m happy that Fran is with Tom and her parents. Sad her children are without their mom.
A loving friend says
Dear Stevens family,
I recently heard about the passing of your beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, and I wanted to extend my deepest condolences to you and your family. I hope you find comfort and strength during this challenging time.
Her legendary stash of cookies brings a smile to my face. It’s incredible how something as simple as a homemade treat can create lasting memories and warm hearts. Your grandma’s legacy lives on through the joy and love she shared, and the delicious cookies she made will always be a sweet reminder of her.
Wishing you peace during this difficult time.
With heartfelt sympathy,
A loving friend
Kathleen Broussard says
Stevens Family
We are so very sorry for your loss of your mom, grandma and great grandma! I have wonderful memories of being at her house with our family. Every time I would see her she always remembered that I belonged to Jimmy. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Keith, Kathleen Stevens, and Kory Broussard
Connie Reinig says
So very sorry Libbie and Leslie. Loved your mom. She was a special soul. Prayers for all of you
Jan Gleason Gregson says
Dear Stevens family. We are so so sorry to hear about the passing of your sweet mom. We send our love and hope that your memories give you peace. She was such a wonderful lady.