Fran was born and raised in Spring Lake, North Carolina.  After graduating from the Medical College of South Carolina School of Nursing (now MUSC) she married her husband Jim, a young naval officer, at First Scots Presbyterian Church in Charleston.  They were married for over 50 years and raised five children as Jim's career relocated them around the country.

Fran’s strength came from her family, her faith and a love for others demonstrated by her involvement at church and support of civic organizations. She especially loved the tradition of gathering her family together for Thanksgivings at Montreat, as well as gardening, baking, a good book and conversation with family and friends.

Preceded in death by her husband,Mrs. Whipple is survived by her children; Jane Anne Bruch & husband John of Greenville; Hope Boothe & husband Charles of Dublin, OH; Wendy Ginn & husband John of Knoxville, TN; James Whipple of Greensboro, NC; David Whipple & wife Yun Hee of Kuantan, Malaysia. Also survivingare twelve grandchildren and two great-grandchildren;Hannah & Virginia Bruch, Matthew (Kaitlyn), Meg & Leslie Boothe, Meredith (Matt) Wilson and children Caroline & Henry, Clayton (Kirby) & Truett Ginn,Baileigh &Ben Whipple,Isaac Whipple & Samantha Stine.

A memorial service will be held in the Chapel of Foothills Presbyterian Community on Saturday afternoon, September 10th at 4pm.  The family will receive guests following the service.  Fran will be laid to rest next to Jim at 1pm on the grounds of Honea Path Presbyterian Church where they were once members.  In lieu of flowers, memorials to Honea Path Presbyterian Church, 106 Maple Street, Honea Path, SC or Presbyterian Communities of SC/Foothills, 205 Bud Nalley Drive, Easley, SC 29642 are appreciated.