Frances W. Handelong, 89, of Plainfield Township, passed away on Saturday, May 6, 2023 in Lehigh Valley Hospital- Hecktown Oaks. She was the beloved wife of Robert S. Handelong who passed away on March 11, 2013.

Born February 20, 1934 in Washington Township, she was a daughter of the late Paul and D. Pearl (Alliger) Weidman. Frances was a graduate of Bangor High School, class of 1952 and worked at several textile mills in the slate belt including Sparrow Blouse Mill.

Frances grew up on a farm and continued her love of flower and vegetable gardening throughout her life. She was an active member of the Plainfield Farmers Fair Association for more than 50 years. When her children were growing up, she also served as a 4-H leader.

She was a member of Zion UCC in Lehighton and a former member of Hope UCC in Wind Gap, UNITE and the Slate Belt AARP where she and her husband enjoyed many bus trips.

Frances is survived by her son Terry L. Handelong and his wife Sandra of Mertztown; daughters Denise A. Lint and her husband Timothy of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and Donna M. Belkey and her husband Shawn of Plainfield Township; grandchildren Kimberly, Bethany, Kristin, Shawn J. and Shana as well as 5 great grandchildren and her sister Nelda Buss.

Along with her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her sister Madeline Oyer.

Relatives and friends are invited to a viewing on Friday, May 12 from 10-11 am in the Schmidt Funeral Home PC, 202 West St., Wind Gap where the funeral service will begin at 11 am. Frances will be laid to rest in Plainfield Cemetery. Memorials in her name may be addressed to the Plainfield Farmer's Fair Association and sent to Susan Hahn, 1424 Church Road, Pen Argyl, PA 18072.