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Obituary for Frances Patterson Walton
Frances Patterson Walton was born on June 25th 1930 to Frances Lucille Rhymes and Malone Kelly Patterson and passed away on September 30th 2016 in peace at her home, as she wished. After attending Jackson Public Schools and graduating from Central High School, Frances boarded the train to attend Agnes Scott College in Atlanta. She ultimately transferred to and graduated from Millsaps College as a music major, doing so early in order to marry O.B. "Billy" Walton, the love of her life.
Frances was a devoted mother, a playful, adoring grandmother (Mimi), and a delighted great-grandmother who also dedicated herself to the civic life of Jackson. Her support of and involvement in numerous community and arts associations were her trademarks; she has bequeathed that love of volunteerism and understanding of its importance to future generations of family and friends alike. Notable highlights of her communal involvement include her tenure as President of the Junior League of Jackson, her time spent as President of the Symphony League (honoring her father's efforts with others in founding the Symphony itself), and her more than 30 years strengthening both earthly and spiritual relationships as a member of the Explorers Women's Bible Study leadership. Her variety of affiliations defied easy categorization, ranging from luncheon clubs to the Research Club and Chaminade Music Club. Most dear to her heart was the family she created and sustained as a lifelong member of Galloway Memorial United Methodist Church with her consistent presence and involvement. External recognition of her community leadership and contributions came when she was honored at the Goodwill Volunteer Salute and received the Junior League Sustainer of the Year award.
Frances was feisty and vibrant and always rose to the occasion, turning her greatest challenges into opportunities for ministry and connection with others. A consummate Southern woman, Frances grew deep Mississippi roots but adored traveling with her dapper, caring husband. Billy and Frances were childhood friends and sweethearts who explored the world together, bringing home memories and occasionally making lifelong friends as they encountered far-flung locales - and frequented Disney World, a great favorite with their grandchildren. As quick with a quip as she was constant in her commitments to people, organizations, and beliefs, Frances brought infectious energy to her everyday life. She loved fiercely and protectively, embodying the sentiment of 1 Corinthians 13:13: "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love."
Many of those she loved the most mourn her loss in this life: her husband, Billy Walton; son and daughter-in-law Ben and Marita Walton; and daughter, Kelley Walton Fenelon, all of Jackson. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren will miss their Mimi as well: Bennett and Samantha Walton in Houston, Texas and their children Caroline, Otis, and Jack; Rhymes and Prentice Stabler in Nashville, Tennessee and their children Pace and Ramsay; Marita Walton of Jackson, Mississippi; Kelley Frances and Melissa Fenelon Snarr, also in Nashville, and their son Marrin; Patterson Fenelon in Miami, Florida; and Laura Walton Fenelon in Nashville.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to Frances Pat's doctors, especially Lyndsey Dill, N.P., Dr. Warnock, Dr. Compton, Dr. Ferguson, Dr. Cannon, Dr. VanLandingham, and Meredith Covington, N.P. In addition, our appreciation goes to the caregivers from Comfort Keepers, especially Sandra
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Galloway Memorial United Methodist Altar Guild, or to a charity of your choice .
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, October 3rd at Galloway Memorial United Methodist Church in Jackson, Mississippi.
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