ow-shaped colors burst upon entering the Ashland Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

And the 92-year-old force behind the bows loves to share her talents.

Whether it’s bows, wreaths or arrangements for funerals, Frances Eisenhower continues to create designs—just as she has for more than 50 years.

She came to Hanover County in July 2007 from Jacksonville, Fla., after having made her home there for about 60 years.

Born on Nov. 19, 1917, in Palmyra, returning to Virginia was an obvious move for Frances.

Niece Elizabeth “Jenny” Mundy of Mechanicsville said, “That’s why she’s here—Virginia—this is her home and where her family is.”

Like Jenny, Frances’s “baby” sister, Shirley Hanvey of Sandston, makes frequent trips to Ashland to visit.

Frances was the oldest of 11 children.

Age has not slowed Frances as she checks out her works in the corridors.

Of course, the door on her room has a wreath. She is particular in that the decoration coordinates with the holiday or season.

“She was always great at it,” said Jenny about her aunt’s bow-making. “She tries to teach everybody who comes in how to make bows.”

The creations, Jenny added, are “her natural thing.”

Realizing the talent this spirited lady possesses, Jenny said, “Girls come around and ask her to make bows.”

“I teach them how to make them,” Frances said proudly.

Passersby would never guess her age as she makes her way down the hallways. She’s spry and always pleasant—and no one is a stranger to her.

Her niece said “She goes in and talks to everybody.”

Erin Pittman, who serves as the director of activities at the center, said that Frances “has taught other residents and she uses them (the bows) to cheer them up.”

Frances is described as being a very helpful instructor when Erin offers arts and crafts to the residents.

To bring some cheer to residents, Frances decorates wheelchairs with bows and also will place bows in their hair.

“She always thinks of how she can help others first,” said Erin. “She’s just a doll.”

“We just adore her—there’s a lot of spunk in that little body,” she added.

“Aunt Frances is giving all the time,” Jenny said.

“Our vacation was to Florida and she took care of us.”

As for the Ashland center she now calls home, Frances said, “It’s a wonderful place to be. I thank God for every day that my mind is still good.”

Aware that so many people in her age bracket suffer memory issues, Frances said, “It’s wonerful to have one [a good mind], to know people and be able to talk with them.”

Frances is shown with her niece, Elizabeth “Jenny” Mundy of Mechanicsville, and her “baby” sister, Shirley Hanvey of Sandston.