News Summary
Frances Dean Kleppinger, a beloved community member and former HR Manager, passed away at the age of 78. Her dedication to service, faith, and leadership left an indelible mark on Williamsburg. Active in local organizations, her legacy is celebrated by family and friends through upcoming memorial services.
Williamsburg – Frances Dean Kleppinger, a cherished community member and long-time Human Resources Manager, passed away at the age of 78 on September 4, 2025. Her contributions to the city and her prominent roles in both her professional and personal life left a lasting impression on those who knew her.
Kleppinger was born on August 22, 1947, in Amherst, VA, to the late Charlie E. Dean and Lois B. Dean. She was preceded in death by her two brothers, Raymond Dean and Robert Dean.
After a prolific career, Kleppinger retired from Wells Fargo, where she served as an HR Manager for 49 years. Her leadership and dedication to her profession were widely recognized and respected.
Deeply committed to her faith, she was a member of James River Baptist Church in Williamsburg, VA. Kleppinger was not only a participant but also an active role model within her church community, where her faith was central to her life.
In addition to her church, Kleppinger contributed to local organizations, serving as an active member of the Historic Triangle Rotary Club, and engaged with the Ford’s Colony Garden Club. Her commitment to community service highlighted her dedication to improving the lives of those around her.
Beyond her community involvement, Kleppinger maintained an impressive physical fitness regimen, regularly attending Iron-Bound Gym, where she was known for her discipline and friendly demeanor. She exercised almost every day, sometimes twice a day, and took pride in the physical conditioning she achieved, forming lasting friendships at the gym.
Kleppinger was also a passionate cook, enthusiastic shopper, avid traveler, and talented decorator. Known for her skill as a seamstress, she made her own clothes for many years, showcasing her creativity and resourcefulness.
Kleppinger cherished her relationships with her family and friends, placing immense value on these bonds. She is survived by her loving husband, David L. Kleppinger, one sister, Janice Hagar (Edward), and six stepchildren: Amy Winkler (Adam), Jason Coleman (Katy Rodney), Laura Henry (Joseph), David Kleppinger Jr. (Lauren), Christopher Kleppinger (Brie), and Sarah Elizabeth (Mickey). Additionally, she was a grandmother to two grandchildren, Finley Orlando and Abby Coleman, and is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 am at First Baptist Church of Monroe, VA, with Pastor Glynn Coleman officiating. Friends and family are invited to arrive an hour prior to the service, starting at 10:00 am. The ceremony will conclude with an interment at Briarwood Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Frances Dean Kleppinger’s memory to either First Baptist Church of Monroe or to the James River Baptist Church kitchen fund, reflecting her deep connection to her church and community.
Another celebration of Kleppinger’s life is scheduled for Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 11:00 am at James River Baptist Church, officiated by Pastor Dr. Scott Salsman. Friends, family, and community members are encouraged to join in honoring her legacy and the impact she made throughout her life.
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Additional Resources
- WYDaily: Frances Dean Kleppinger Obituary
- Wikipedia: Williamsburg, Virginia
- Dignity Memorial: Frances Kleppinger
- Google Search: Frances Kleppinger
- Legacy: Frances Kleppinger Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
- WYDaily: Jim Zsoldos Obituary
- Google News: Community Service
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
