Fran Mitchell

Mum to  three gorgeous girls, Fran Mitchell enjoyed an early career as a legal secretary, followed by training in architectural draughting. Fran enjoys Auckland’s West Coast and is a Volunteer Lifeguard at United North Piha.

In 2003 when her sister was terminally ill, Fran’s life took a dramatic turn as she decided to care for her at home.

“My sister’s illness and subsequent death really was a life-altering event. It caused me to seriously question traditional death care and funerals and consider whether there were any realistic alternatives. I just wasn’t comfortable with what was on offer, and felt I should be able to honour my sister in a far more personal, meaningful way,” Fran says.

Fran participated in the Jerrigrace Lyons’ Home Funeral course organised by Deb Cairns in April 2005. The move to creating State Of Grace was a natural progression.

“It is a privilege to be able to support grieving families to care for their loved ones in such a respectful and loving way,” she says.

Fran has completed her Certificate in Grief Counselling which has provided her with a more thorough understanding of the grief process.