MARY FRANCES HOWARD

Frances Abercrombie Howard, age 95, of McCalla joined her Lord and a host of family and friends in heaven on March 10, 2021. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family. She is survived by her daughter, Cecilia Howard Champion (Sam); a sister Barbara Abercrombie; five grandchildren, Stephanie Huffman (Alan), BJ Howard, Ashley Howard, Jason Bergeron, and Nathan Champion; five great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, C.V. Howard; three sons, Joel Howard (Lindell), infant son Daniel Mark Howard, and Dennis Howard (Lucy); one grandchild, Will Champion; two sisters, Dru Howard and Ferris Gray; and three brothers, Jack Abercrombie, Mitchell Abercrombie and Jimmy Abercrombie. Frances lived a long life dedicated to God, her church, family and community. She was born on August 6, 1925 to Jesse and Laura Abercrombie in Wylam, Alabama but grew up in Bluff Ridge outside of Birmingham. She graduated from McAdory High School in 1944. She was witness to and lived through many significant events in history. As a young woman during World War Il, she worked as a "Rosie the Riveter" in a defense plant constructing bomb shell casings. She has always been mindful of the past and a preserver of history for the next generation. She embraced hard work, was willing to take on difficult projects, and was enthusiastic about trying new things such as computer, internet and social media in her eighties. She was an artist. She spent her life making things beautiful, whether it was growing flowers, making Easter dresses or painting porcelain dolls. Though she had a beautiful life, it wasn't always easy. She had an amazing perseverance and determination in whatever circumstance she faced. Her unshakable faith was the foundation of that. She worked hard but enjoyed life, cherished being with family, and found joy in her journey. She held many roles and leadership positions throughout her life in service to the United Methodist Church at both Earnest Methodist and Pleasant Hill. She was always an active member of the United Methodist Women, served terms as Chairman of the Administrative Board at Earnest, and served as Church Historian for Pleasant Hill. She contributed her artistic talents to her church in many ways, including helping sew needlepoint kneelers for the sanctuary and serving many years as Worship Chairman. She was a beloved member of the congregation. She was quick to welcome new members and faithful in nurturing and car-ng for her church family. Her sweet spirit and unifying presence will be missed. She served her community in many ways. She helped start McAdory Volunteer Fire and Rescue, and then served as President of the Board of Directors from 1985-1988. Frances was a member of a community garden club and the West Jefferson Historical Society. She always found a way to contribute her talents and gifts to those around her. The visitation will be Saturday, March 13, 2021 at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church in McCalla, Alabama from 12 noon to 1 pm. The funeral service will be at the church at 1 pm. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pleasant Hill united Methodist Church, 4809 Bell Hill Road, Bessemer, Al 35022, www.pleasanthillumc.com.