Obituary: Frances Parker (Staples) Meyer: Remained At Forest Park School In Joliet Until 2014 Retirement

(The following obituary was submitted on behalf of the family.)

Frances Parker (Staples) Meyer 1937–2026

Frances passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, on September 28, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Eliot and Frances Staples; her twin sister, Karen Kiefer; and her siblings Eliot Staples and Martha Sorensen. She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Marshall Meyer; her daughters, AmySue Meyer and Kathleen Meyer; her grandson, Marshall Dean Meyer; her great-grandson, Justice Parker Meyer; and her siblings Robert Staples, Amy Laurin, and Lawrence Staples. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Frances graduated from Lewis College with a degree in education in 1958. She began her teaching career at Forest Park School in Joliet, Illinois, in 1966. A dedicated educator, she remained at Forest Park—now Forest Park I.E.—until her retirement in 2014. She was named “Teacher of the Year.”

Imagine how many students crossed paths with her in those hallways and classrooms over 48 years. During that time, she also formed lifelong friendships with fellow teachers Betsy and Jean.

Frances enjoyed researching family genealogy and making calendars each year that included important family dates. A loving and caring person, Frances will be greatly missed.

As per her wishes, cremation rites will be accorded, and a private celebration of life will be held at a later date.