Frances J. Tarsha

Frances (Degnan) Tarsha, passed away on March 1, 2025, at the University of Michigan Hospital, surrounded by her loving daughters.

Born on September 22, 1951, in Toledo, Ohio, Fran was welcomed into the world with her fraternal twin, Thomas Degnan. Fran was the daughter of Edmund and Madeleine (Flanigan) Degnan, whose devoted Irish Catholic faith and traditions were woven into the fabric of her life.

Fran attended Gesu Elementary School and Saint Ursula Academy. Fran graduated from the University of Toledo with a Bachelor's Degree in Education.

Fran found great purpose in her professional life. As a teacher at Saint Joseph’s in Maumee, she enjoyed inspiring future generations. Fran continued her professional career as a social worker at the Lucas County Jobs and Family Services. She was a dedicated union representative, advocating for her colleagues and the community.

Fran’s love for others extended through volunteer roles at Sunshine Children's Home and Good Grief of Toledo. She had a gift for making people feel valued and cared for, and her work reflected her deep sense of service.

Fran married the love of her life, Lewis J. Tarsha, in 1979. Together, they raised their two daughters, Molly and Megan, in a home filled with love, humor, and unwavering support. Fran and Lou always strived to instill kindness, strength, and compassion in their children.

Fran deeply loved her family. She delighted in spending time with her grandchildren, who were a source of great happiness in her life. Whether taking trips to the zoo, annual Christmas cookie decorating, or dreaming up playful moments to bring smiles, Fran’s greatest joy was creating happy memories for her loved ones. Her kindness and warmth extended to all areas of her life. She made lifelong friends everywhere she went.

Fran was a joy to be around. Her love, kindness, generosity, and humor will be missed by all who knew her.

Fran is survived by her daughters, Molly (Suleiman) Beseiso and Megan (Adam) Clark, her beloved grandchildren Nora (Anthony) Beseiso-Shadler, Alia, Khaled, and Layla Beseiso, and Cooper Clark. Also surviving are Fran’s twin brother Thomas (Robin) Degnan, Uncle Michael (Janet) Flanigan, as well as many wonderful nieces, nephews, and cousins. Fran was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis J. Tarsha; her parents, and her sister Mary Catherine Nowel.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Andrea Thompson, Dr. Monte Scott, and Zac Tomczyk, MSN, and all the extraordinary staff at the University of Michigan Cardiac ICU for their compassionate care and support during Fran’s final days.

The family will receive guests on Friday, March 7th, 2025, from 2-8 PM at Newcomer Chapel, 3655 King Rd., Sylvania, Ohio. Her Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, March 8th, 2025, at 11 AM at Little Flower Catholic Church, 5522 Dorr St., Toledo, Ohio. Catholic burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 5725 Hill Ave., Toledo, Ohio.

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