Frances Flajnik McNally

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Frances Flajnik McNally, who was called home by the Lord on January 11, 2025, at the age of 86. She passed peacefully, surrounded by the four men she loved most: her husband and three sons. Frances was born on May 13, 1938, in Preloka, Slovenia, Yugoslavia. She was the youngest of nine children, though a tenth sibling tragically passed away as an infant. In 1942, at the tender age of four, her family and she fled to Quistello, Mantova, Italy after the communist regime threatened their lives for refusing to join their cause. Upon settling in Italy, Frances obtained her elementary education in Quistello. In 1951, part of her family legally immigrated to America where most settled in Prescott, Arizona. Their first home was on North Mt. Vernon. In 1956, Frances graduated from Saint Joseph’s Academy. In 1960, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, one of several languages in which she was fluent. During her college years, she spent her vacations and summers working in Prescott, often staying at her oldest brother’s home on North Washington Street. Driven by her love for travel and aviation, Frances began her distinguished career as a flight attendant with United Airlines in 1961. Throughout her 51-year career, she played a significant role in several notable events, including working on the 1968 Richard Nixon presidential campaign and participating in the historic Friendship One Flight Around the World in 1988. She retired in 2012, leaving behind a legacy marked with dedication, elegance, and excellence. As a passionate tennis player, Frances frequently enjoyed matches with friends at Yavapai College, the Prescott Racquet Club, Yakashba, and private courts. When not on the court, she could be found walking the trails between Prescott and Chino Valley or tending to her plants and garden. She generously volunteered her time with the Funeral Ministry at Sacred Heart Parish, was an active member of the Republican Women of Prescott, participated in local Fly Girls’ gatherings, and was a proud supporter of her sons’ sporting events. Wherever she went, her hair was never out of place, and her lipstick was perfectly applied. As a hostess, Frances’ skills were unparalleled. Anyone fortunate enough to dine at the McNally home knew her famous “Secret Recipe” appetizer, “Super Duper Eggs Benedict,” legendary “Frances Onion Soup,” prime rib, rack of lamb, sautéed mushrooms, and red velvet cake. Her table settings were always impeccable, “in case the Queen comes,” as she would say. Whether you were a lifelong friend or a newcomer, you were always welcome. Frances is survived by her sister in Italy, Angela Artioli, her cherished husband of 56 years, Dr. Gerald McNally, and their three sons: Brian (Megan), Jason (Ami), and David (Veronica), as well as her five beloved granddaughters: Baleigh, Eden, Phoebe, Lauren, and Savannah. She was a devoted godmother, a loving aunt/kuma to her nieces and nephews, and a second mother to many. A funeral mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, located at 150 Fleury Street in Prescott, on Wednesday, February 12th at 11:00 a.m. A private graveside service for family will follow. Frances’ favorite saint was Saint Jude. Therefore, in lieu flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in her honor, or to a charity of your choice. Rest in peace, Frances. Thank you for your incredible contributions to the world. “Here’s to you, and here’s to me”… but truly, here’s to you.

Frances Flajnik McNally

May 13, 1938 - January 11, 2025