CHARLOTTE - Mary Frances Blanton DeLaney died on Wednesday, September 26, 2012 after a brief illness. She was 87 years old. Born on November 6, 1924, Frances was the daughter of the late Mary Alice Bost Black and Norman McKinley Black. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her husbands, Auty Ostell Blanton and Harry DeLaney; her brothers Norman McKinley Black, Jr., and James Thomas Black. Frances attended Central High and Brevard College. She was a devoted wife to Air Force fighter pilot, Auty. They traveled the world with their family until Auty's retirement. Frances was a woman of great strength who kept her family happy during Auty's many deployments. After his retirement, they returned home to Charlotte to settle. After their return to Charlotte, Frances became a real estate broker. She was a member of Providence United Methodist Church where she attended the Christian Home Sunday School Class and Circle 1 and was a member of the Methodist Churchwomen. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother.

Frances is survived by two sons and their wives; one brother and his wife; two sisters-in-law; two granddaughters; and nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank Aldersgate and Asbury Care Center for their kindness and care for Frances and her family during her illness.

A Memorial Service will be held at 12:30 pm on Friday, September 28th, 2012 in the Sanctuary of Providence United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends following the service at the church. Interment will be private. Memorial contributions in Frances' memory can be made to The Empty Stocking Fund, PO Box 37269, Charlotte, NC 28237-7269 and to The Aldersgate Resident Assistance Fund, 3800 Shamrock Drive, Charlotte, NC 28215. Condolences may be offered at www.HarryandBryantFuneralHome.com.

Published in Charlotte Observer on September 27, 2012