M. Francelle "Fran" Thorne

CARBONDALE – M. Francelle “Fran” Thorne, 82, passed away on Monday, February, 24, 2020 in her home surrounded by her loving family.



Fran was born on September 11, 1937 to Frank Paul Brock and Julia Estelle Brock (Horrell) in Carbondale. She married Philip Vincent Thorne on September 7, 1957 in Anna, Illinois.



Fran is survived by her husband, Phil; son, William “Woody” Thorne and wife Rita; daughter, Frances Van Norman and husband Greg; grandchildren, Mary Heltsley and husband Jarrod, Chuck Lauder and wife Paige, Michelle Murphy and husband Dugan, Mitch Lauder, Chris Van Norman, Julia Van Norman, and Ellie Van Norman; and great-grandchildren, Hannah Heltsley, Harper Heltsley, Alayna Lauder, and Alexa Lauder.



She was preceded in death by parents Frank and Julia Brock.



Fran spent 16 years as an I.T. specialist in Naperville, IL until her retirement in 1996. Soon after retirement, Phil and Fran moved back to Southern Illinois, residing at the Lake of Egypt. They enjoyed boating, hiking, and hosting family and friends. Both she and Phil were avid Saluki fans and attended most SIU sporting events (home and away) in addition to forming special relationships with many individual Saluki athletes and coaches.



A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 29, 2020 at Meredith Funeral Home followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 11:30 a.m. officiated by Roger Lipe.



In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, SIH Foundation - Coach Kill Fund, or to SIU Athletics. Memorials will be accepted at the funeral home.

To leave a story or memory of Fran, visit www.meredithfh.com.