Frances Hey Hobart

Frances Hey of Dragons Abreast Hobart was such a sudden and unexpected loss to our community. She was a seemingly fit 64-year-old when she died suddenly at home one Saturday morning, leaving behind a loving husband, three adult children and two grandchildren. Her two daughters lived interstate and the tragedy was aggravated by Covid lockdown restrictions and the requirement to quarantine.

After her breast cancer diagnosis, it took quite a few years to persuade Frances to try dragon boating. When she finally capitulated, she threw herself wholeheartedly into the paddling, the socializing and even the fundraising. Frances loved being part of the Boobialla crew and we all loved her back.

Frances will always be remembered for her wicked sense of humour and quick wit. She could laugh gleefully at herself as well as the rest of the world. When Frances was your paddling buddy, keeping a straight face and not chortling loudly was not always easy! The day that our team farewelled Frances with a special Flowers on the Water Ceremony, even the clouds cried.