Frances Wilson
Frances Seay Wilson died peacefully at home on August 25, surrounded by her family.
She was born on May 5, 1922, at Seayland Farm near Lebanon, Tn., and graduated from Peabody College with a B.S. in Home Economics and an M.A. in Elementary Education. Following graduation, Frances enlisted in the W.A.V.E.S. and attended Officers' Candidate School at Smith College while her future husband, Shields, was serving overseas as a Naval officer. During World War II her unit was responsible for the re-supply of all the ships at sea in the Atlantic. Frances and Shields were married in 1946 and celebrated their 68th anniversary on Aug. 18.
Following their marriage, Frances taught while Shields was in law school and continued her teaching career after moving to Chattanooga. Wanting to stay home with her young children, she later started Seaygirl's Catering Service from home and became known as an accomplished cook and hostess. The Wilson home was a favorite gathering place for her children's friends because of her warm hospitality and gracious manner. The vibrant Frances, known by her family as Seaygirl, took great pleasure in sharing her home and talents.
In 1968 Frances began working with the Chattanooga Public School System, serving as a program developer and later as director of Title I Math and Reading. Throughout this time she had a positive impact on the lives of many children and teachers, and formed lifelong friendships.
Frances was an elder and member of The Barnabas Team at Rivermont Presbyterian Church, member and past President of Delta Kappa Gamma, and on the board of Northside Neighborhood House. She was extremely intelligent and multi-talented. She had numerous accomplishments, but valued most her role as wife and mother. Those who know Frances have never doubted her love for God, her family, and her friends. She loved easily and fully.
Survivors include her husband, Shields Wilson; sister, Nancy Kilgore Miller of Augusta, GA; children, John Wilson and wife, Susan, of Chattanooga; Elenora Asbury and husband, Bill, of Dallas, TX; Albert Wilson of Chattanooga; Thayer McGahee and husband, Rusty, of Augusta, GA; grandchildren John Shields Wilson V; Hunter Wilson; Mary Frances McGahee; Kelly McGahee; Rebecca McGahee; Brooke Asbury Delaney, Paige Asbury, and 15 devoted nieces and nephews.
The Wilson family wishes to thank Hospice of Chattanooga for their genuine compassionate and expert care. The siblings also want to thank their brother Albert, whom their mom referred to as her “male angel”, for his untiring love and devotion in making her last years on this earth full of joy.
Memorials may be made to Northside Neighborhood House, 211 Minor Street , P.O. Box 4086, Chattanooga, TN 37405.
Visitation will be held at Lane Funeral Home on Friday, Aug. 29, from 5-7 p.m.
Services at Rivermont Presbyterian Church will be held on Saturday, Aug. 30, at 11 a.m., followed by a private burial.
Visit www.lanefh.com to share condolences.
Arrangements are by Lane Funeral Home, Ashland Terrace, 877-3524.