Annabelle D. French

Annabelle Delphina French passed away peacefully on Oct. 8, 2013 at the age of 77. Annabelle was born on March 31, 1936 in Drayton, N.D. to loving parents, Ernestine (Lessard) and Henry French.

She was one of 16 children and a twin sister to Clarabelle Eva French. Annabelle attended St. Aloysius Convent Academy in Oakwood, N.D.

Annabelle was a loving daughter, amazing sister, caring aunt to many nieces and nephews and a devout servant of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Annabelle served our Lord by always helping others, including her grandparents and her parents.

She was always “on call” to help out with her nieces and nephews, who all adored her and hold onto many fond memories of their aunt. After the passing of her parents, Annabelle moved to Fountain Hills to reside with her brother, Wilmer French.

Whenever family members had questions or needed answers about what was happening, the phrase “ask Annabelle” was the usual response, because Annabelle was the family historian, taking and collecting photos over the years, memories that we will all cherish.

Anyone who knew Annabelle will always remember her big heart and great sense of humor. She also loved to collect dolls and many other treasures that meant a great deal to her.

Along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and aunts, Annabelle is survived by three brothers and eight sisters: Wilmer Eugene French, Edward Lawrence (Larry) French, Joseph Henry French Jr., Lorraine McCoy (James- deceased), Rose Kostecki (Julian-deceased), Marcella Holweg (LuVerne), Germaine Pokrzywinski (Amie), Helen Jane Osowski (Donald), Estelle Vanyo (Daniel), and Geraldine Dirocco (Francis).

She was preceded in death by four sisters and one brother: Doris Langowski (Stanley), Marie (Blanche) Snyder (Donald-deceased), Georgette Raymond (Darrell), Clarabelle Eva French, and Marcel French (Winnie).

Funeral mass was held Monday, Oct. 14, 2013 at 10 a.m. at the Church of the Ascension in Fountain Hills. Inurnment will be at Queen of Heaven, Mesa.