Frances
Jewkes
Martin
Frances Martin, 94, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2022, with her loving family by her side. Fran is survived by her two treasured daughters, Kathie Mentzel and husband Gary of Lanoka Harbor and Pamela Martin of Manasquan; her sweet granddaughter, Jessica Mentzel of Cliffwood; and her beloved twin sister, Randy Tripucka of Woodland Park. Fran was predeceased by her beloved sister Dorothy Straight. Fran was also the cherished aunt of Candy, Dwight, Heather, Tracy, Mark, Todd, T.K., Kelly, Chris, Celeste, Cabot, Cara, Gregory, and Jeffrey.
Born in Jersey City in 1927, Fran grew up in Bloomfield and graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1945. Fran attended Upsala College, graduating magna cum laude. Fran married Albert Martin, also from Bloomfield, in 1951. Fran devoted the next fifteen years to her family, raising and nurturing her daughters, Kathie and Pamela. During these years, Fran served as a Girl Scout Leader, and coordinated a “make believe” trip around the world for her daughters. These activities sparked Fran’s interest in teaching, prompting Fran’s return to college to earn her teaching certification.
When Fran and her family moved to Mantoloking Shores in 1966, Fran secured a third grade teaching position in Point Pleasant, where she encouraged and educated children for the next thirteen years. At night, Fran pursued her Master’s degree in Elementary Education at Kean University, graduating summa cum laude. Fran also taught Head Start, was a guest lecturer at Georgian Court College, and volunteered on a host of committees. Fran’s dedication and achievements were recognized in 1978 when Fran was honored to be nominated for National Teacher of the Year.
Fran moved from the classroom to administration in 1979 when she was hired as Supervisor of Elementary Education, in Manchester. Fran quickly embraced the new challenge. Shortly thereafter, Fran was promoted to Director of Curriculum (K-12). Then Fran became Vice Principal of Manchester Middle School. In 1983, the Manchester PTA surprised Fran by hosting a special “This is Your Life” celebration, with Fran as honoree. In 1989, Fran became Principal of Ridgeway Elementary School. At age 65, Fran finally opted for a well deserved retirement.
During retirement, Fran became an avid bridge player and immersed herself in a plethora of community activities. Fran’s retirement years also included the fun new role of “Grandma”, treasuring many hours spent with little Jessie. During retirement, and throughout her life, Fran’s steadfast devotion to her family was always evident; she was so generous with her love and support.
Mom, we will miss your hugs and your abundant unconditional love. You will be treasured in our hearts forever.
Services will be private. But if you wish to remember Fran, please offer a kind word or deed to someone in need. This would make Fran smile.