Frances Morgan Smith's Obituary
Frances Jean Morgan Smith, a pillar of strength in her community known for her unwavering dedication to family and tireless commitment to her faith, passed away peacefully at home on April 27, 2024 after a brief, but fierce, battle with cancer. Frances had 83 loving and joy-filled years before she entered Heaven.
Born in Lakeland, Florida on November 7th, 1940, Frances grew up with a deep sense of compassion and full of elegance and charm. She embarked on a journey marked by resilience and determination, shaping the lives of those she encountered along the way. Frances was widowed twice and overcame both tragic losses with grace. Despite the trials of her own life, Frances always held a door open when friends or family needed a home or a hug. Her steady presence could even be glimpsed in the pristine pastries she decorated when she worked in baking, providing an external symbol of her inner fortitude.
Frances leaves behind a legacy of love and empathy that will be cherished by her surviving family members. She is survived by her devoted children, Mark Morgan and Kim Phillips, their spouses, Nancy Morgan and Kelly Phillips, and her five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, who will continue to carry forward her memory with love and reverence. She will also be remembered affectionately by her surviving siblings, Joseph Keil and Barbara Glavas, as well as by her siblings-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
Throughout her life, Frances exemplified the values of kindness, integrity, and generosity, touching the lives of countless individuals through her acts of selflessness. She answered every call for help and fiercely protected those she loved. Her devotion to her faith presented many opportunities to support those in need and she did – giving of her time, talents, and resources whenever possible. While Frances was certainly generous, she was also funny. No matter the situation, she found a way to joke through it. Whether it was giving sassy remark that elicited an eyeroll, dancing in the car with her grandchildren, laughing at herself, or sharing an amusing story, Frances kept people smiling. She also had an appreciation for beauty that she shared with those around her. She loved tea parties, dresses, figurines, and flowers. Indeed, Frances’ impact extended far beyond the confines of her immediate circle, resonating deeply within the hearts of all who had the honor of crossing paths with her.
A celebration of life ceremony will be held in honor of Frances where friends and family will gather to celebrate a life well-lived and to pay tribute to the profound influence she had on those around her. The ceremony will be Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 11:00 am at Gentry-Morrison Southside Chapel in Lakeland, Florida.
Frances will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift those whose lives she touched, serving as a beacon of hope and love for generations to come. As Jesus said in John 11:25, “…whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live.”
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