R. Frances Clapp

R. Frances Clapp, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend, passed away at the age of 87, on March 21, 2025, at Presidential Oaks in Concord, NH, following a period of declining health.

Born on May 16, 1937, in Bow, NH, Fran was the daughter of Albert and Clara (Page) Tripp. She grew up in Concord, where she graduated from Concord High School and went on to build a lifelong career dedicated to caring for others. Fran worked at Concord Hospital for most of her career providing maternity care. She had a genuine love for babies, and her nurturing spirit touched countless lives.

A woman of unwavering faith, Fran was deeply involved in the life of St. Paul's Church in Concord. Her commitment to service was evident through her work with the Stephen Ministries, providing comfort and support to those in need, as well as her role as a bereavement counselor, pastoral ministry member and Ministry of Presence. Fran also served as a Justice of the Peace, officiating weddings for several close friends, a role that brought her much joy.

Fran was an avid reader and loved sharing her collection of books with her many friends. She and her beloved husband Malcolme, with whom she shared more than 25 years of marriage, loved to travel and explore new places together. Her two favorite things in life were the sun and the ocean in addition to her family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Fran was predeceased by her husband Malcolme in 2021, as well as the father of her four children, Verne Sawtelle. Fran is survived by her children: Randy Sawtelle, Terri (Jim) Brennan, Barry Sawtelle, and Scott Sawtelle; seven grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She is also survived by Malcolme’s children Virginia Rouleau, Ralph Clapp, and Dorothy Boardman and their families. In addition, she leaves behind her childhood best friend and sister-in-law Barbara Sawtelle Brown as well her dear friend Bob Samson.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Presidential Oaks for their expert and compassionate care during Fran’s final days. Fran’s legacy of love, faith, and service will forever be cherished by all who knew her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, April 11th at 11am at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 21 Centre Street in Concord. Burial at Monadnock View Cemetery in Keene will be attended privately. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Presidential Oaks (200 Pleasant St. Concord, NH, 03301) or St. Paul's Church (https://www.stpaulsconcord.org/financially).

The Cremation Society of New Hampshire is assisting the family with arrangements. To view an online memorial, leave a message of condolence, or for more information please visit www.csnh.com.