Frances Derenge

Frances Livesay Derenge, 92, of Bluefield, WV, departed this life on 11-14-2023. Frances was a teacher, healer, faith/spiritual leader, artist, farmer, nutritionist, seamstress, chef and the matriarch for many. She was the daughter of Harry and Pearl Livesay of Greenbrier County WV. A woman ahead of her time, she loved to learn and teach throughout her life. She was a graduate of Concord College, Radford University, and attended Virginia Tech. She taught English in Ohio and WV schools, taught nutrition and upholstery at Bluefield State College, and served as a substitute teacher in Mercer County Schools. She also taught nutrition in the Virginia state health clinic system where she worked to address and correct malnutrition for disadvantaged people throughout SW Virginia. A powerful soul who never failed to also be patient and kind. She was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bluefield, and she practiced her Christian faith by showing compassion and generosity to all. In addition to her parents, she was proceeded in death by her husband Charles Derenge, brother Glen Livesay, and two sisters Ruth Tyler and Agnes Sorenson. Survivors include NINE children, Barbara Lynch, Harry Derenge, Paul Derenge, Diane Keene, Charles L. Derenge, William Derenge, Michael Derenge, Thomas Derenge and John Derenge. Frances also had 25 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren (and counting), and was influential to many others, including a special niece Lisa Tyler who was her neighbor and best friend. Frances Derenge lived a long and beautiful life. She was a pioneer of her time and led a life filled with beautiful experiences. The love and compassion that she provided to those around her will always be fondly remembered, and it will live on in the lives of the people lucky enough to have known her. Friends may visit with the family from 6pm to 8pm at the Cravens-Shires Funeral Home in Bluewell WV on December 1. Friends are also invited to attend funeral mass on December 2 at 10am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bluefield. Graveside services will be for family only. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your preferred charity.