Frances S. Gandy's Obituary
Frances Smith Gandy (1923 - 2023) With heartfelt sorrow and immense love, we announce the passing of Frances S. Gandy, a cherished resident of Story Point Retirement Community in Collierville, TN. Frances, who reached the venerable age of 100, passed away surrounded by family on November 25th at the residence of her nephew, Mark Patrick, in Byhalia, MS.
Born on March 30, 1923, in Searcy, Arkansas, to Iona and Jesse Smith, Frances's life was rich with memories of her childhood during the Great Depression. She was raised on a farm with no running water or electricity and had vivid memories of riding to town in a horse and wagon and washing clothes in the creek. She often spoke of picking cotton on her family's farm and neighboring fields and cherished the walks to church with her aunt and cousin, which instilled in her a lifelong faith in Jesus Christ.
Frances's professional journey was marked by significant contributions across various roles. In her late teens, she moved to Memphis and supported the WWII effort at Firestone, manufacturing lifeboats. She then served as a receptionist at Mills Morris, an auto parts company. Following this, Frances worked as a telephone switchboard operator in the early days of The Peabody, and finally, as a receptionist at C&I Bank in Memphis, where her joyful demeanor made a lasting impression.
Her beloved husband, Daniel Lamar Gandy, preceded her in death by 17 years. Together, they shared 59 years of marriage, filled with unwavering dedication and love. Frances often reminisced about their life together with fondness, especially highlighting the care she provided for him through sickness and health. The loss of her sisters, Dorothy Patrick and Ann Bowen, in 2016 deeply affected her, as they held a cherished daily connection that left an indelible mark on her heart.
A long-time resident of both Water Valley, MS, and Memphis, TN, Frances's retirement years were a testament to her love for simple living and her dedication to serving her community, especially in times of need. Her life in retirement was characterized by an unwavering commitment to helping others, reflecting the compassionate spirit she shared with her late husband.
Leaving behind a profound legacy of love, service, and faith, Frances is survived by her brother, William E. "Bill" Smith; her beloved niece and nephews: Sheridan E. Stracener (Danny), Mark H. Patrick (Julie), Jeff L. Patrick (Tammy), and Anthony E. “Tony” Smith; and a host of great-nieces and nephews whom she helped nurture and raise. Frances’s influence on their lives was significant, and her role in their upbringing speaks volumes about her loving and nurturing nature.
Frances was a devoted member of several churches throughout her life: Temple Baptist in Memphis, TN; First Baptist Church in Water Valley, MS; and, later, Ridgeway Baptist in Memphis. Her faith was a cornerstone of her existence, guiding her actions and interactions with all.
The family wishes to express profound gratitude for the additional love and care Frances received from Nancy Hartwigsen, a fellow resident at Story Point. This kindness greatly enriched Frances's final years.
Frances's life was an exemplar of humility, kindness, and steadfast faith, and it will continue to inspire and comfort those she touched. Her memory will be a guiding light to all who knew her, and she will be profoundly missed.
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. Psalm 116:15
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 2:00pm in the Fireside Chapel at Memorial Park Funeral Home. Visitation will be begin an hour prior to the service starting at 1:00pm. Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.
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