Fran Boggs Metcalf OBITUARY
Fran Boggs Metcalf, age 100, passed away peacefully at the Michigan Veterans Home in Chesterfield Twp, Mi on October 16, 2024. Mrs. Metcalf was predeceased by her husband Richard on May 17, 2014, and a daughter, Marsha Lee, who died at birth. She was one of 10 children born to Abner and Drusilla Boggs. Fran was born July 21, 1924, in West Springfield, PA. At age 17, after being told she was too young to join the service, she became a Rosie the Riveter, joining the ranks of women who entered the work force in WW2 as the men went off to war. She helped build B-29 bombers. She then did join the NAVY and served during the 2nd world war helping pilots. For her service as a "Rosie", Fran received a Congressional Gold Medal during a ceremony at the US Capitol earlier this year. On July 20, 2024 she was feted at a 100th birthday celebration attended by many of her family and friends. Her birthday was also acknowledged by Presidents Biden and Bush (43), who provided letters of congratulations. Returning from Service, Fran met and married Richard John Metcalf in Conneaut, OH, on July 16, 1950, where they lived until 2010. She had twins, Marsha Lee, who died shortly after birth in 1951, and, Lynn Metcalf Alexander. While in Conneaut Fran made a name for herself in local politics, even writing a book, "How to Fight City Hall". She and her husband were active in the local Genealogy Society and became officers. While in Michigan Fran became involved with the Rosie the Riveter and Women in Defense Groups. She served as an inspiration to all who knew her. Fran was "the glue that held her family together", caring for her parents, siblings and her numerous nieces and nephews during her years in Conneaut. The true joys of Fran's life were her family including daughter and son in law, grandchild and great grandchildren to whom she was "GiGi". She is survived by her Daughter, Lynn Alexander (Former Director of the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging) and her husband, James Alexander (Retired Oakland County Circuit Judge); Grandson Scott Alexander of Westfield, IN and his wife, Beckie Alexander; and great grandchildren, Gabriella and Austin. She also is survived by numerous beloved Nieces and Nephews. The family is also extremely thankful to the staff at the Michigan Veterans Home in Chesterfield Twp. Their care and concern for Fran, and for the other nearly 100 Veterans who live there, is unparalleled. The family will receive friends Sunday, October 20, 2024, 1-4pm at the AJ Desmond Funeral Home (Vasu, Rodgers & Connel Chapel), 32515 Woodward Ave (btwn 13-14 Mile), Royal Oak. Cemetery in Holly, MI. Internment will be private at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI. In lieu of flowers, memorials for Mrs. Metcalf may be made to the Women in Defense Scholarship Fund or The Michigan Veterans Home, Attn Maxine...47901 Sugarbush Rd Chesterfield Twp, MI 48047. View obituary and share memories at AJDesmond.com
