Frances Elizabeth (Hirst) Walton was born on March 7, 1927, in Essex, Iowa. She was the ninth child of James Arthur and Minnie Etta (Coomes) Hirst. Preceding her in death were her parents, husband Charles Walton, siblings Alice Henshaw, Thelma Hirst, Lalah Bright, Gladys Callison, Lucille Karrle, Arthur Hirst, Maxine Edwards, Junior Hirst, LaDonna Good, daughters Sherry Walton and Sonja Bowers, and son-in-law Rich Kennedy.
Growing up in a large family, Frances was surrounded by love and the values of hard work and community service which she carried throughout her life. Charles & Frances were married on December 30, 1945. Their union brought forth four daughters: Sandra, Sherry, Sally and Sonja. The family expanded to include ten grandchildren – Kim (Cindy) Kennedy, Brett (Kimberly) Kennedy, Brian (Aimee) Kennedy, Shelly Wampler, Liana (Jared) Vessell, Bob (Brandi) Lillard, Jamie (Phil) Brooks, Brandy (Scott) Lance, Brooke (Jeff) Holzwarth, and Andrea Bowers. Frances also celebrated the joy of twelve great-grandchildren: Andrew (Brandi), Bailey, Jacob, Kaden and Dakoda Kennedy, Lucas and Anna Vessell, Kason Lance, Madison and Owen Lillard, Ellie and Porter Brooks; and two great-great grandchildren Rosalie and Ruger Kennedy. She is survived by her daughters Sandra Kennedy and Sally Lillard, son-in-laws Dennis Lillard & Rick Bowers, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and a multitude of nieces and nephews.
Frances graduated from Central High School in St. Joseph in 1944. Before her marriage, she worked as a telephone operator and bookkeeper. As she began her family, Frances devoted herself to being a homemaker and community leader. She was deeply involved in her daughters’ lives, from sewing matching outfits and cheerleader uniforms to teaching Sunday school classes and leading 4-H and Vacation Bible School activities. Together with Charles, Frances was involved in various business ventures including farming, construction, livestock, a car dealership and housing developments. She played a vital role in these businesses, often working behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly.
Frances was known for her generosity and unselfish lifestyle. Her perfectionism was evident in her beautiful penmanship, well-maintained gardens, and exceptional culinary skills. She learned these skills during the Great Depression, which shaped her values and work ethic. A devoted follower of God’s Word, Frances’ life was a testament to her love for others. Her faith guided her actions and her dedication to her family and community.
Frances joined her Lord and Savior on Saturday, June 15 surrounded by her loved ones. Her legacy of love, dedication, and service will be cherished and remembered by all who knew her. Frances requested that in lieu of flowers, to please consider donating to Andrew County Food Pantry to support families in need.
Visitation and family receiving hours will be 3:00pm-5:30pm Wednesday, June 19th, 2024 at Breit-Hawkins Funeral Home in Savannah, MO. Funeral Service will be 5:30pm Wednesday, June 19th, 2024 at Breit-Hawkins Funeral Home. Burial will follow the funeral services at Savannah Cemetery.
