Francine Casanova Brundage | Eastern NC Now

    Francine Casanova Brundage of Washington, North Carolina passed away on July 23, 2026, at the age of 81.

    Born August 22, 1944, in Charleston, SC, she was the daughter of the late Earnest Dominic Casanova and Eugenia Rose Passailaigue. Fran grew up in Jacksonville, NC graduating from Jacksonville Senior High before receiving her degree from Hardbarger Business College in Raleigh, NC. Fran spent most of her years in Washington, NC where she built a full life centered around her family, community and service to others.

    Fran was a devoted mother to her beloved three sons whom she shared with the late Willard Lee Rumley. Later in life she was married to Jeff Brundage who preceded her in death in 2025.

    Fran had a very successful 30-year career in real estate, beginning with the Rich Company in Washington in 1977. She continued that passion as she and Jeff moved throughout the country, working in Philadelphia, Chicago, Seattle and Charlotte. Away from work, Fran was known as an exceptional cook, a voracious reader, an avid domino player and a lover of classic movies.

    Deeply rooted in her community, Fran volunteered many hours at the Brown Library especially enjoying preparing for and shopping the yearly book sale. Fran was a founding member of the Washington Historical Society and spent countless hours working to preserve Washington's history by interviewing and recording longtime residents and founding families. In her early years Fran was active with the women of the First Presbyterian Church.

    Fran is survived by her sons, Dr. Jeff Rumley (Kathey) of Washington, NC, Williard Lee Rumley of Pompano Beach, FL and Gary Beacher Rumley (Laurel) of Las Vegas, NV and her grandchildren, Davis Lane Rumley, Williard Lee Rumley IV, Reagan Wayne Rumley and Isabella Evelyn Rumley.

    The family would like to thank Maggie Hernandez for her dedication, love and care of Fran for many years. She was truly Fran's closest friend as well as her daily caretaker.

    A private graveside service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family kindly requests a memorial contribution to be made to the Brown Library in Washington, NC.

    Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Rumley family.