Frances Smith

Alice "Frances" Sartin Smith, born on February 15, 1934, in the serene embrace of Metcalf County, Kentucky, took her final bow in the quiet comfort of her home on October 31, 2024 surrounded by her beloved family. A gentle soul with a vibrant spirit, Frances was 90 years old when she departed from this world, leaving behind a tapestry of memories woven with love, laughter, and the joy she found in the simple pleasures of life.

Known for her unwavering kindness and a personality that blended friendliness with a hint of sass, Frances was a beacon of warmth to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her remarkable sense of humor could light up a room, while her passion for beauty manifested in her love for nature. A devoted gardener, she delighted in cultivating flowers, filling her surroundings with color and fragrant blooms. She found solace in feeding the birds and squirrels, creating a little haven of peace that reflected her nurturing spirit.

Frances was not just a lover of nature; she was a creative force, skillfully crafting unique treasures that captured the essence of her imagination. Her booth at the Seymour Oktoberfest and the Jackson County Fair, charmingly titled “Unique Clocks and Crafts,” showcased her meticulous handiwork and vibrant creations. Reading was another of her cherished pastimes, her collection of books reflecting her endless curiosity and love for stories.

A proud graduate of Dupont Manual High School in Louisville, Kentucky, Frances remained a lifelong faithful member of the Church of Christ. Her faith grounded her, guiding her through the ebbs and flows of life, reinforcing the bonds of love she shared with friends and family.

Frances is remembered lovingly by her son, David W. Smith of Bloomington, Indiana; her daughters, Debbie Frederick and her husband Rob of Jeffersonville, Indiana; Rhonda Holle and her husband Dennis of Seymour, Indiana; Linda Stepp and her husband Alvin of Jeffersonville, Indiana; and Ange Luedeman and her husband Larry of Seymour, Indiana. She brought immeasurable joy to her 13 grandchildren: Danny Holle, Amber Williams, Ray Frederick, Jon Frederick, Matt Fleenor, Kevin Holle, Mitch Fleenor, Jeffrey Frederick, Chris Smith, Jackie Lieberman, Cole Luedeman, Mara Luedeman, and Ellie Smith, and her legacy continues with her 17 great-grandchildren, who will carry forward her light.

Frances was embraced in death by her beloved husband, David W. Smith, with whom she shared over 68 years of marriage, as well as by her parents, Buell Earl Sartin and Mary Modest Pedigo Sartin, and her brother, Medwin Sartin. 

The family will receive friends on November 8, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, leading into a funeral service that will commence at 7:00 PM, all taking place at Christensen Family Funeral Home in Seymour, Indiana. As we gather to share stories and reminisce, may the soothing whispers of the outdoors, her happy place, remind us of the beautiful spirit she was and the love that continues to flourish in our hearts.

Friends are invited to leave condolence messages for the family at www.christensenfamilyfuneral.com.

Daniel and Betsy Christensen have been entrusted with the arrangements.