Frances B. Sykes, age 97, of Adams, passed away surrounded by family on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at Tennova Medical Center.
Frances was born on May 29, 1926, in Robertson Co., TN to the late Bill and Louise Wilson Bryant. Frances is also preceded in death by her husband, Alvin Sykes and her son, Michael Sykes; sisters, Margie Miller, Rosie Robinson and Lorene Lang.
Frances is survived by her loving children, Billy Joe (Brenda) Sykes; Elizabeth (Tommy Murphy) Sykes and Gary (Shirley) Sykes; sister, Susie May Waldren; grandchildren, Julie (John Ed) Fletcher and Jamie (Missy) Sykes; seven great grandchildren; eight great great grandchildren.
Frances was the second of five girls born to the late Bill and Louise Bryant and was raised during the Great Depression on the second floor of an old store house and shared a bed with the “5 little girls” through her childhood. Frances often reflected on her memories of sledding on cardboard down Baptist Hill or Ice Skating on Miller’s Pond and the seven mile walk from Adams to Guthrie to see a movie. Frances’ love of family flourished as she became older, after the loss of Alvin Sykes, Frances endeavored to raise all four of her children as a single Mother. Her love for her children was unconditional with no reserve. Frances’ love of family extended into her job as well, as she served the children of Montgomery Co. diligently for 20 years through the CMCSS Cafeteria program. She was always happy and her joy from flowers, hummingbirds, and Christmas ornaments were evident in all her smiles. Her genuine love of nature and its abundance was always evident; whether it was from her cats to her butterflies, Frances knew joy. Her easy smile was contagious and will be forever embedded in the hearts of family and friends.
A Graveside service will be held in Frances’ honor on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Resthaven Cemetery with Brother John Casey officiating and great grandson, Kyle Fletcher to deliver family prayer. Pallbearers will be grandchildren and great grandchildren. Family and friends are encouraged to attend.
In lieu of flowers donations in Frances’ name may be made to Manna Café’ Ministries, 605 Providence Blvd., Clarksville, TN 37042 or Puurrrfect Paws Rescue, 20 Barker St., Clarksville, TN 37042.
Arrangements are entrusted to Neal Tarpley Parchman Funeral Home, 1510 Madison Street, Clarksville, TN 37040; (931) 645-6488. Online condolences may be made at www.nealtarpleyparchman.com.