Lafayette

Frances Grayce Willson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2025, at the age of 84.

Born on July 9, 1940, in Pennsylvania, Frances later moved to Albany, California where she graduated from Albany High School in 1958. She married the love of her life, Bob Willson, in 1960, and together they built a life rooted in love, hard work, and family.

In 1976, Frances and Bob purchased Flowerland Nursery, a cherished local business they ran side by side until their retirement in 2007. Known to many in the nursery industry, Frances shared her knowledge and enthusiasm by writing a well-loved newsletter that was distributed to businesses throughout the state. Her writing reflected not only her expertise, but also her care for the gardening community.

Frances was the heart of her family. She was a devoted mother to her two sons, Rob and Cary, a proud grandmother to Marisa, Briana, Cooper, Haley, Anthony, and Brooke, and a joyful great-grandmother to Evangeline.

She is survived by her husband, Bob, and brothers Patrick and Bill (Kathleen). She was preceded in death by her sister, Robin.

Frances found great happiness in life’s simple pleasures —spending summer days at Lake Tahoe surrounded by her grandchildren, and enjoying countless sunny afternoons on the golf course. Her passion for the game was matched only by the laughter and stories she shared along the way.

She will be remembered for her warmth, quiet strength, generous heart, and the deep love she gave to those around her. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and she will be deeply missed.

A celebration of her life will be at held on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 2:00pm to 5:00pm at Diablo Hills Golf Course (The Greenery) in Walnut Creek. All are welcome to drop by anytime to enjoy some hors d’oeurves and share memories and stories of our beloved Frances.