Rensselaer- Frances "Fran" Veronica Mahar passed away on April 4th, 2017 at Baptist Nursing Rehabilitation in Scotia, NY. Fran was born in Albany, NY on May 26, 1919, the daughter of John and Frances Kelly. Fran was predeceased by her husband James of 52 years, and her eldest son James Jr. A dedicated and loving mother and wife, her roots provided the foundation for multiple generations to follow and grow, including: (5) children, (17) grandchildren and (35) great grandchildren. Fran was always a child at heart. She loved her family unconditionally, and gave of herself relentlessly. At just shy of 98 years old, she was comfortable and secure in her love, strong and simple. Most of Fran's life was spent living in Rensselaer, NY where she raised her family. In her senior years, she enjoyed time with friends and was active with the Senior Citizen Center, where her line-dancing abilities gained fame throughout the community. Fran's spirit, energies, and influences will indeed live on. Her legacy has set a bar that will challenge us all to live up to with our own lives. Fran is survived by her eldest son William (Janet) Mahar of Amenia, NY, daughter Mary (Charles) Hack of Delanson, NY, sons John (Jan) Mahar of Glenville, NY, and Steve (Amy) Mahar of East Nassau, NY. Her children and their extended families are Fran's legacy. Her unlimited and unconditional capacity to love was her distinction that exemplified her spirit and commitments Relatives and friends are invited to gather for a celebration of Fran's life to be held on Sunday April 9th at W.J. Lyons Jr. Funeral Home, located at 1700 Washington Ave, Rensselaer, NY from 1:00 to 3:30pm to be followed immediately with a brief religious service also at Lyon's. Those in attendance are encouraged to bring your favorite Fran memories and stories to be shared. Following the service at Lyons, everyone is welcome to further celebrate Fran's life with shared socialization and food at the nearby Melvin Roads Post American Legion Hall located at 200 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush. Burial service is scheduled for departure from Lyon's at 11:00am on Monday April 10th to The Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Third Ave. Ext. East Greenbush, NY.