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Frances J. West-Poma
Frances Juanita Cleary West-Poma, 80, of Rosedale, Maryland, passed away peacefully July 21, 2026 in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, surrounded by the love of her family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lucie and Walter Cleary; her brothers Tommy and Eddie and sisters Georgie and Shelby.
Born on November 9, 1945, in Havaco, West Virginia, Frances lived a life defined by faith, service, strength, and unconditional love. She proudly served her country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, a reflection of the dedication and resilience that remained with her throughout her life.
Frances was a devoted member of Prince of Peace Church in Rosedale, Maryland, where her faith guided her daily life. She also faithfully served as Chaplain of American Legion Post 130, offering comfort, encouragement, and support to fellow veterans and their families. She was a hardworking woman who found great joy in volunteering, spending time with her many friends, and caring for those she loved. Her faithful companion, her beloved dog, Lil Bit Lea, was the center of her world and brought her endless happiness. Frances also enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—a good cup of coffee, watching Hallmark movies, and spending time with family.
One of Frances’ greatest joys was visiting the Outer Banks, where she treasured making memories with her children and grandchildren. She found peace by the ocean, and the beach always held a special place in her heart. It brings her family great comfort knowing that she was able to spend her final days in a place she loved so much, surrounded by those who loved her most.
Frances is survived by her daughters, Elizabeth Cubler and Michele Renee Godsey (Rick); her cherished grandchildren, Blake Cubler, David Cubler, Kaitlyn Carlisle (Tait), and Madison Godsey; her precious great-granddaughter, Charlotte Renee Carlisle; her beloved sisters, Louise Cregger and Norma White; and many treasured friends and extended family members who will forever remember her kindness, generosity, unwavering faith, and gentle spirit.
Frances will be cremated in accordance with her wishes. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a future date. She will be laid to rest with military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Building Fund at Prince of Peace Church in Rosedale, Maryland, a place that meant so much to Frances.
Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing she is at peace. Her legacy of faith, service, compassion, strength, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved. Gallop Funeral Services is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at Gallopfuneralservices.com.
Condolences
Fran was one very special person….faith filled and mission driven. Our American Legion Post 130 lost a Marine but heaven gained an angel. Rest in eternal peace dear friend.
Fran was a very special woman whose live of God, country and family endeared her to her many friends. We considered her "family" at Prince of Peace where she always put the needs of others first. She was so proud of all her family, including Lil Bit Lea! She will be missed by all of us., but we know she is with her Lord and at peace now. With live, Becky
Fran and I had many laughs at the Legion Post 130 in Perry Hall. Fran was also a major player in bringing the "Be the One" American Legion National Program to help prevent veteran suicide in the living rooms of Marylanders through her affiliation with WBAL TV. Through this program she helped save Veterans' lives... always a soldier. Condolences to her family. May she rest in peace... fantastic job soldier.
Such a fine lady. As the chaplain at American Legion Post 130 her prayers at our meetings came from her heart. She often called me about matters pertaining to the Post. When she called I knew it would be an extended conversation and enjoyable. RIP my friend 🧡
Fran was a beautiful lady and she was deeply loved by our American Legion Family. We are si sorry for your loss and we grieve with you. Please let us know when she will be laid to rest at Arlington.
It was a honor to work along with her.my prayer are always with her and her family and friends
Rest in peace Fran. Volunteering with you at Prince of Peace Social Ministry will always be a memory I will cherish. Thank you for your service in every aspect of your life. You will be missed. Much love.
Condolences to the family of Fran. She will be missed. She was always willing to help a Legionnaire in need. Farewell my friend, and fellow Legionnaire.
My life is better for having known Fran - her gentle spirit was a joy to be around. May you rest in heavenly peace. You will be missed.
Fran will be missed by American Legion District 3.
Fran was such joy to work with on various Legion committees and such ! Always upbeat, positive and genuine! Such a gracious and beautiful Lady! Fly high with the angels Fran!!! Salute !
Fran was a dual member of the Legion and the Auxiliary. She was a valued member of the Unit, and we had many conversations, which I will remember fondly. I loved her laugh. She will be deeply missed.
Fran was head strong with a huge heart. She got things done. God will rejoice when Fran arrives. She truly did his work on earth. We at the American Legion Post 130 send our sincere condolences to your family. Peace and love
I was glad to have the opportunity to know Francis. I know she is at peace and with God.
Frannie was the best. She was full of fun and brightness even in the toughest of times. We spent many hours/days fixing and repairing those items that annoyed one. I had the personal pleasure of sharing many a meal and coffee with her; talking about everything. We shared many a prayer for many a reason for others, as well as self as needed. God was first to both of us; and we felt family was a blessing. Frannie, you are with God now no doubt. Dear friend forgive me for not seeing you more. Praise God you are with him. And yes, we worked hard for God and are a reflection of him. You and Lea are back together my angel sister. Semper Fidelis
Fran was one very special person….faith filled and mission driven. Our American Legion Post 130 lost a Marine but heaven gained an angel. Rest in eternal peace dear friend.
Fran was a very special woman whose live of God, country and family endeared her to her many friends. We considered her “family” at Prince of Peace where she always put the needs of others first. She was so proud of all her family, including Lil Bit Lea! She will be missed by all of us., but we know she is with her Lord and at peace now. With live, Becky
Fran and I had many laughs at the Legion Post 130 in Perry Hall. Fran was also a major player in bringing the “Be the One” American Legion National Program to help prevent veteran suicide in the living rooms of Marylanders through her affiliation with WBAL TV. Through this program she helped save Veterans’ lives… always a soldier. Condolences to her family. May she rest in peace… fantastic job soldier.
Such a fine lady. As the chaplain at American Legion Post 130 her prayers at our meetings came from her heart. She often called me about matters pertaining to the Post. When she called I knew it would be an extended conversation and enjoyable. RIP my friend 🧡
Fran was a beautiful lady and she was deeply loved by our American Legion Family. We are si sorry for your loss and we grieve with you. Please let us know when she will be laid to rest at Arlington.
It was a honor to work along with her.my prayer are always with her and her family and friends
Rest in peace Fran. Volunteering with you at Prince of Peace Social Ministry will always be a memory I will cherish. Thank you for your service in every aspect of your life. You will be missed. Much love.
Condolences to the family of Fran. She will be missed. She was always willing to help a Legionnaire in need. Farewell my friend, and fellow Legionnaire.
My life is better for having known Fran – her gentle spirit was a joy to be around. May you rest in heavenly peace. You will be missed.
Fran will be missed by American Legion District 3.
Fran was such joy to work with on various Legion committees and such ! Always upbeat, positive and genuine! Such a gracious and beautiful Lady! Fly high with the angels Fran!!! Salute !
Fran was a dual member of the Legion and the Auxiliary. She was a valued member of the Unit, and we had many conversations, which I will remember fondly. I loved her laugh. She will be deeply missed.
Fran was head strong with a huge heart. She got things done. God will rejoice when Fran arrives. She truly did his work on earth. We at the American Legion Post 130 send our sincere condolences to your family. Peace and love
I was glad to have the opportunity to know Francis. I know she is at peace and with God.
Frannie was the best. She was full of fun and brightness even in the toughest of times. We spent many hours/days fixing and repairing those items that annoyed one. I had the personal pleasure of sharing many a meal and coffee with her; talking about everything. We shared many a prayer for many a reason for others, as well as self as needed. God was first to both of us; and we felt family was a blessing. Frannie, you are with God now no doubt. Dear friend forgive me for not seeing you more. Praise God you are with him. And yes, we worked hard for God and are a reflection of him. You and Lea are back together my angel sister. Semper Fidelis