Frances "Fran" C. (Bivona) Batz

Mrs. Frances “Fran” Catherine Batz, 83, of Surfside Beach, wife of the late Carl Batz, passed away peaceful on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at Magnolia Bridge at Murrells Inlet.  

Mrs. Batz was born on November 29, 1942, in Lynbrook, New York, daughter of the late Barney Bivona and Julia Tascarella Bivona. Fran retired in 2007 from Hyman Law Firm in Florence, where she worked as a paralegal. Prior to her time there, she was employed with Willcox Law Firm, where she also dedicated herself to her work with diligence and care. Through her professionalism, attention to detail, and strong work ethic, she earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues and all who had the pleasure of working alongside her.

Fran was someone you could always count on—steady, dependable, and full of love. She had a warm and gentle spirit, and there was something truly special about the way she made people feel. Her hugs were comforting, her kisses were sweet, and her presence alone brought peace and joy to those around her. She loved deeply and gave of herself freely, never holding back when it came to caring for others. She was also a big fan of Elvis Presley, and when it came to his music, she could listen to it all day long.

More than anything, Fran wanted to be known as a good mother, and she was exactly that. Her children were the center of her world, and she loved them with a depth that words can hardly express. Everything she did reflected that love—strong, constant, and unconditional. She was a loyal and genuine friend to many, always there when she was needed, offering support, kindness, and a listening ear. She had a way of making people feel valued and loved, and her friendships were deeply cherished by all who knew her.

Fran and her husband, Carl, shared a beautiful life together, spending many cherished years at Lake Marion in Manning and then after retirement, moved to Surfside Beach Club. There, they built lifelong friendships and created memories that will be treasured for years to come. Together, they were a joyful and welcoming couple—the kind of people others were naturally drawn to, always enjoying laughter, fellowship, and the simple pleasures of life.

Surviving are her son, Michael (Pamela) Woodhouse of East Hampton, NY; daughter, Lisa Woodhouse (Harold) of Surfside Beach, SC; son, Scott (Gina) Woodhouse of Easley, SC; grandchildren, Michael (Gabrielle) Woodhouse, Jr. of Forest Hills, NY, Lucas (Jessica) Woodhouse of Boca Raton, FL, Brice Woodhouse and Alex Woodhouse, both of Greenville, SC; brother, Robert (Grace) Bivona of Greenlawn, NY; 3 great grandchildren, Antonina, Vincent and Millie; many nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Batz was preceded in death by a brother, John Bivona.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later time.

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