Biography: Frances Virginia Shepherd Lance, 61, of North Little Rock, died peacefully in her sleep early Monday, October 23, at Arkansas Hospice in Little Rock. She was diagnosed with lung and brain cancer just a few weeks ago. Frances is survived by her daughter Paige of Arlington, Va., her mother Geraldine Shepherd of Sterling, Va., and her sister Mary Ellen Shepherd of Greenville, S.C. She was preceded in death by her college sweetheart and loving husband of 37 years, James Winslow Lance, and her father, Col. Watson Shepherd (U.S.A.F. retired). She was known affectionately by her family and a few close friends as “Choppy.” She stood by Jim through many good years and a few that were not so good, and he often gazed at her lovingly and called her “My Lady.” Frances did a beautiful needlepoint tapestry that reads “Friends are our chosen family,” and that is a motto she and Paige lived by. They both have many sisters of the heart. Those Frances loved included “the Reunion Ladies” -- a group of mostly high school friends who meet for dinner once a month; a group of Tri Delt sorority sisters, and members of a “bridge club” that quit playing bridge years ago but keep meeting to talk and eat, unimpeded by cards. There are many others who don’t fit into any of these groups. They know who they are, and Frances loved them, too. Frances lived in North Little Rock for most of her life, moving here with her family when her father was stationed at LRAFB. She graduated from North Little Rock High School in 1962 and received a B. A. degree from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville in 1966, where she was a member of Delta Delta Delta Sorority, a Razorback Beauty and a Sigma Nu Sweetheart. She was a sustaining member and served as treasurer of the Junior League of North Little Rock and was a former member of the “Common Cents” investment club. Frances was an active member of Lakewood United Methodist Church for many years and served on its Board. She later attended Christ Episcopal Church in Little Rock. She did the accounting for many years in Jim’s office at AFS Financial Group. She started working as a “Boutique Lady” the first day the Lakewood Village Steinmart opened, and she continued to work there for several years -- mostly to get the discount! Frances will be remembered by those who loved her for many, many reasons. She was a wonderful wife, mother and friend. She had a hearty laugh, loved a good joke, and she could zing a droll one-liner with the best of them. She was a proud and beautiful woman with impeccable taste who always dressed with class and style. She was a gracious hostess and gifted decorator who collected beautiful things and knew how to arrange them for a stunning effect. Her home was warm and lovely and always open to her friends. She loved to entertain, and she was a great cook. She was also a talented seamstress, a skill she shared with her mother. Frances loved her golden cocker spaniels Daisy Fae and the late Coloneletta, and because of her loving care, they lived long after their times on earth should have been over. Paige wishes to thank the staff at Arkansas Hospice and all the wonderful friends who helped her through this difficult time. In lieu of visitation, a party will be held in celebration of Frances’ life. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, October 27, 2006, at Christ Episcopal Church, 509 S. Scott, Little Rock. Arrangements are by Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.