Francine Rowars (Gross) Kaufman, 77, of Columbia, MD, the late wife of Hal Kaufman, passed away on May 25th, 2021 after a final disagreement with cancer. Fran, who grew up in Jackson Heights, NY and Hollywood, FL is most remembered for her infectious, charismatic and fun personality. Fran served as a Broward County School Board Member (1976-1978), a Broward County Commissioner (1978-1982) and a Memphis Zoo Docent (2007-2014). Fran is the daughter of the late Howard Rowars and Muriel Leeds, step-daughter of the late David Leeds and sister to Charles (Jeri) and Barry Rowars.
A world traveler, lover of flowers, and enthusiastic singer with Encore Chorale (Columbia, MD), Fran is and will always be celebrated by her two daughters – Dana (Tom) Lawson and Jennifer (Paul) Lara, three grandchildren (Jessica Lawson, Anna Lawson and Olive Lara), three family dogs (Annie, Ty and Jedi) and step-children Marty Kaufman, Natalie Lefkowitz, Herb Kaufman, Mindy Smith and their families.
There will be a private funeral. A Celebration of Life will be planned post-pandemic. To honor Fran right now, please wear bright colors, smile at strangers (even through your mask) and show kindness to others. Donations can be made to Encore Creativity for Older Adults (Annapolis, MD) where Fran enjoyed singing and serving as the Columbia Chorale Master and/or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (Memphis, TN).