Mary Frances Cantwell

10/2/1944 to 8/14/2026

Visitation 9-10;30 am Friday

Funeral Mass 10:45 Friday at Holy Family Home, 5300 Chester Ave., Phila 19143

Mary Frances Cantwell, AJJ, 81, of Holy Family Home went to Heaven on August 14, 2026. She was born and raised in Germantown and was the beloved oldest of nine children. A graduate of Our Lady of Confidence School she was a member of the class of 1962. Mary Frances served faithfully as an Associate of St. Jeanne Jugan for over 64 years. The Association supports the work of the Little Sisters of the Poor in serving God's elderly poor. Her years were spent with the sisters at their home in SW Philadelphia. She rendered service to countless residents, Little Sisters, and guests for over 64 years. Her duties and tasks were countless, never too great or too small and always done with grace, humility and love. A member of the staff remarked that Mary Francis was the finest person that they knew. Favorite tasks were serving as Sacristan caring for the chapel and as receptionist welcoming and extending hospitality to the families and visitors to the Home. The sparkle in her eyes and sometimes wry smile told those around her all they needed to know. Mary Frances especially looked forward to family gatherings. Recognized by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, she was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 1993. The epitome of service, humility and love, she will be deeply missed by all. She was truly a blessing from God. Preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Marguerite (nee Moughan) Cantwell, her sister Theresa Crowne (Dennis); survivors include her sisters Margie Herbert (late Dennis) and Catherine Cantwell; brothers Frank (Nancy), Joseph, Fr. Stephen Cantwell, C.M., Timothy (Eunice), and Michael.

She is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnephews and grandnieces.

God bless our dear Mary Frances.

Visitation 9AM Friday August 21, 2026

followed by her Funeral Mass at 10:45 am at Holy Family Home, 5300 Chester Ave., Phila. Pa 19143

Burial will be at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Contributions in her memory to Holy Family would be preferred

Arrangements Toppitzer Funeral Home