Frances Cohen, 88, of Shenipsit Lake Rd., Tolland, died after a brief illness, Sunday, (November 12, 2006). Born in Norwich, she was Valedictorian of the class of 1935 at Lyman High School. A graduate of Willimantic State Teachers College, she taught in Hartford Public Schools for over 40 years. She served as a WAC in the US Army during World War II. She adored family and friends and loved to spend any amount of time with them. She instilled her educational, political and humble values with tremendous exuberance. Fran dedicated a lot of her time and financial support to many organizations. She was a kind and gentle soul whose smile, laughter, humor and wit were endearing. Fran loved to travel and enjoyed everything about nature, wildlife, the outdoors, walking, literature, news radio, and C Span. We will fondly remember the wonderful outfits she painstakingly knitted and sewed with love. Being a life long member of TOPPS and exercising at Curves gave her much pride in her life. She adored all the members of both clubs and was grateful to all who supported her. Frances made a deep and lasting impression of what care and love for another human being is all about. She walked the walk-not just talk the talk. She leaves two brothers: Bill Cohen of Farmington, Max Cohen and his wife Florence of Coventry; several close nieces and nephews, and a dear lifelong friend Pat O’Connell. She was predeceased by four sisters and a brother. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 15 at 10:30 a.m. in the Congregation B’Nai Sholom Cemetery, Jordan Lane Extension, Wethersfield. Memorial contributions may be made to the Newington Public Library. Arrangements entrusted to Weinstein Mortuary, Hartford.