Frances Zegar

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Fran Zegar, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, who left us on June 18, 2025, in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Born in Newark, NJ on November 27, 1945, Fran was the beloved daughter of the late Joe Smith and Doris Schaffer. Fran lived a life full of love, laughter, and adventure.

She graduated from Bridgewater Raritan High School and later at the Berkley School of Business, Fran worked in the Business Administration field at General Motors and Electronic Data Systems. 

Married to her devoted husband, Eugene Zegar, for 57 wonderful years. Together, they raised four children, Eugene (Renee), Tracy (Michael), Kenneth and Becky (Mark), who were her pride and joy. Her love for her family was boundless, and she appreciated her role as the cornerstone of the family.

Fran never backed down from a challenge, whether leading a girl scout troop, volunteering in the classroom, riding her motorcycle or going deep-sea fishing. She was stubborn (in a good way), had a competitive spirit, and was always loyal. She had impeccable taste, a flair for decorating and design and will be remembered for her strength, spirit, fashionable attire, and her ability to make friends anywhere. 

Fran enjoyed the beautiful landscapes and wildlife that surrounded her home in West Chester, PA. She worked to establish a safe environment for the local animals, and her yard was recognized as a Certified Wildlife Refuge, ensuring the protection of the animals in their natural habitat. At the end of her life, she appreciated watching the animals in her yard and the woods even more and shared her love of nature with everyone who visited. 

Among her many hobbies, Fran was an avid golfer and especially enjoyed the Radley Run Country Club community, where previously she held the position of President for the 9-Holers Ladies golf group. Always up for “cutting a rug” she enjoyed music, dancing, playing cards and being social, and spending quality time with friends.

Fran treasured her seven grandchildren, Tyler, Sydney, Zoey, Hailey, Griffin, Kaitlin and Coco. Christmas holidays were special to “Nana” with her infamous Santa collection and were filled with laughter and funny memories. She loved to plan trips to Florida, amusement parks, Longwood Gardens and Lavallette beach to create long lasting memories with her family.

Fran's legacy of love, dedication, generosity and joy will continue to live on in the hearts of her husband, children, grandchildren, and all those fortunate enough to have known her. She leaves behind a world made brighter by her presence and a family forever grateful for her unwavering love. She faced her illness with grace, humor and resilience and always stated that “aging was a privilege” while serving as a source of inspiration to those around her.

Preceded in death by her parents as well as her sisters Patricia and Christine. Survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, sister and many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends who were touched by her spirit and strength. 

Memorial donations may be made in her name to the American Lung Association and/or the Brandywine Valley SPCA. 

Relatives and friends are invited to her visitation on Saturday, June 28, 2025 from 10:00 am - 10:45 am at DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home, Inc. 410 North Church Street West Chester, PA 19380, followed by her Funeral Service at 11:00 am with a luncheon to follow.