Frances Louise (Lance) Simmons, 96, Bailey, TX, passed away in Sherman, Wednesday, April 22, 2020.
She was born in Chillicothe, TX, January 9, 1924 to Herbert Preston and Fannie Elizabeth (Price) Lance. Frances was raised in Quanah, TX and graduated from King High School in 1942. During school she lettered 4 years in Volleyball. While attending nursing school in Sherman she met and married Billy Charles Simmons, in Quanah, TX, May 10, 1944. Together they raised four sons and one daughter. Frances served as a member of the Fannin Baptist Association Board in Bonham. She was former president of the Fanning Baptist Association, WMU along with Ava Barlow.
Most of her adult life was spent as a homemaker. She and Bill spent a number of years as volunteers at Lake Lavon Baptist Encampment. Later in life she accumulated thousands of hours working as a “Pink Lady” volunteering in the gift shop at Red River Regional Hospital, now known as TMC- Bonham. She loved cooking, sewing, making specialty quilts and playing games with children and other family members. Being mission minded she worked several years in various churches in the WMU. She and Billy were members of The First Baptist Church in Leonard, TX.
She was always supportive of her husband’s many moves during his working years. Her family and extended family also received her unending support which she gave with all of her heart. Family reunions were always something she looked forward to and loved attending.
Frances was preceded in death by her husband; Billy Charles Simmons, many brothers, sisters, parents in-laws nieces and nephews.
Survivors include; Myra Elizabeth Fritts of Bailey, Ronald D. Simmons and his friend, Barbara Talbert of Leonard, Charles G. Simmons and wife, Jane of Bailey, Kenneth R, Simmons and wife, Janie of Murphy, and Roger P. and wife, Carol Simmons of Garland, her blessings of 15 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren; brother in-laws; James, and wife, Mary Simmons of Bailey and Glen Simmons also of Bailey, Billy and Frances were blessed with 15 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren; Sister in-law; Frances Daniel of Ector/Bonham, a host of nieces, nephews extended family and friends.
Viewing will be held at Turrentine, Jackson and Morrow Funeral Home, Leonard, TX, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Sunday, April 26, 2020. Private Family Burial, Arledge Ridge Cemetery, Bonham, TX, Monday, April 27, 2020.