Obituary: Frances Treadway Gabbard
Frances Treadway Gabbard, a soul so deeply cherished, departed from this earthly realm on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at her home in Walnut, Mississippi. She graced the world with her presence on March 21, 1934, in Fayette County, Tennessee. Frances was a beacon of light to all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of those she touched.
Throughout her life’s journey, Frances embraced various professional paths with grace and dedication. From her days tending to correspondence at Sears & Roebuck Catalogue to her thoughtful work at the Grand Junction Fiberglass factory and nurturing care for the elderly, she exemplified diligence and compassion in all endeavors. She lived in Memphis while she was working there and then moved to Somerville until 2004, when she moved to Walnut, Mississippi.
Education was paramount to Frances, graduating from Somerville High School in 1953 with a thirst for knowledge that never waned. Her laughter, a melody of joy that resonated wherever she went, became a defining trait that brought warmth and comfort to those around her.
In the tapestry of her interests, Frances found solace in the simple pleasures of life. Whether tending to her garden blooms, unraveling the mysteries of crossword puzzles, indulging in her love for Toyotas, or staying informed through Fox News broadcasts, she embraced each moment with fervor and curiosity. She grew up Methodist but went to the Baptist Church after she married. Frances was a member of Mount. Olive Baptist Church in Somerville.
Family was at the core of Frances’s being, and she leaves behind a cherished circle of loved ones to carry forward her memory. Among those who preceded her in death are Terry L. Forshea and Donna Lanier (daughters); Fred Treadway (brother); George Newell Treadway and Mable Lucille Henley Treadway (parents); and Shirley Denby, Mable Parks, and Yvonne Calhoun (sisters).
Church services will be at Mt. Olive Baptist Church on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at 1 p.m. with a burial in the Mount Olive Cemetery. Shackelford Funeral Directors of Bolivar is in charge of professional arrangements.
While Frances may have bid adieu to this world, she is survived by a loving tapestry of family and friends who will continue to honor her spirit. Cheryl Russell and Billy and Joyce Turner of Walnut, Mississippi (daughters); along with her grandchildren, Christy Marshall (Tracy), Randy Lanier, Nicky Hart (Marty), Micky Russell (Thealishia), Jackie Bryant (Joey), Kelly McKenzie (Richard), Stephanie Jones (Gerald), Penny Fowler (Luis Miranda) ,and Cody Forshea (Tiffany); and 16 great-grandchildren whose lives were enriched by her love and wisdom.
In honoring Frances Treadway Gabbard’s life and legacy, may we find solace in memories shared and lessons learned. May her laughter echo through eternity as a reminder of the beauty she brought into this world. Memorial contributions in her name may be sent to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
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