Frances Flaherty

The world lost a beautiful soul on September 16, 2023 when Frances “Frankie” Ann Flaherty passed away. She was a loving wife, mother, grandma, sister, aunt, and friend.

Frankie was born to Francis and Dolores Murray in Deadwood, South Dakota on September 24, 1954. She spent most of her childhood in Whitewood with her six siblings and several foster brothers.

She met her husband, Michael “Mike” Flaherty, at Mount Marty College in Yankton, where she earned a degree in Education. Frankie and Mike had two daughters, Deirdre and Bridget, and welcomed two foster daughters into their home, as well as their son-in-law Tom Barnes, grandson Theo, and many others who became honorary family members over the years.

Frankie began her career as an elementary school teacher, later earning a Ed.S. in Child Psychology before transitioning to working with insurance and investments for over 30 years. She loved spending time with family and friends, reading mystery novels, traveling with Mike and their kids, and going for walks and bike rides. She volunteered her time with multiple local organizations, including serving on the school board, president and board member for Arts Missoula and First Night Missoula, and leading the Missoula Businesswomen’s Network in several roles. Frankie loved her community, and could be seen regularly around town, socializing, laughing and smiling. She also stood up for her beliefs and was a fierce advocate for helping those in need.

Frankie is survived by her husband Mike Flaherty; daughters Deirdre Flaherty and Bridget (Tom Barnes) Flaherty; grandson Theo Flaherty; and siblings Kathleen Murray, Don (Jan) Murray, Joan (Jim) Lewis, Michelle (Mark) Roselles, Colleen (Ed) Lewis, and Kevin Murray.

A funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on October 7, 2023 at St. Anthony’s Parish in Missoula. A Celebration of her Life will be held at the ALI on the University of Montana campus from 4-7 that evening. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Missoula YWCA on her behalf.