Frances Hayes

Although Frances Hayes valued many things throughout her life, none were more important than creating close relationships with the family she treasured so deeply. She was a loving wife, devoted mother and proud grandmother and great grandmother, who gave selflessly to enrich the lives of those she loved. Frances was a woman of great strength, who worked hard throughout her life, making sure her family was well cared for, as well as others who crossed her path in life that needed help were cared for. She truly had a big, caring heart, and everyone who spent time with her felt the warmth of her presence.

The decade of the 1920s was a time of drastic change in America, as women had just gained the right to vote, and buying on credit was quickly becoming the nation’s favorite new discovery. It was in the year 1920 in Otsego, Michigan that Gordon and Bessie (DeLano) Smith were delighted to announce the birth of their daughter, Frances Helen, on February 3, 1920. Frances was the third of six children, and grew up alongside her siblings, Erma, Margaret, Rosie, Charlie and Carl, in their family home in Three Rivers. Her father provided for the family working in the paper mill while her mother undoubtedly had her hands full raising six children and tending to the house.

Frances attended the Three Rivers area schools through the 10th grade, but only because she had met the love of her life and they were ready to start a life together. Frances met her husband-to-be, Harry Hayes, at a dance in town, and he remembered how beautiful she looked in her blue sweater and had to meet her. So, Harry sauntered out on the dance floor and “accidentally on purpose” bumped into Frances. What began as a “bump” on the dance floor blossomed into true love and after dating for a time, Frances and Harry were married in 1936, beginning a love story that would last 67 wonderful years. It wasn’t long before they became the proud parents of 3 beautiful children, Joanne, Butch and Diane, who brought them so much joy. Frances poured her heart and soul into caring for her children, especially Joanne and Butch who were both handicapped. She wanted them all to feel loved and cared for, living every day to its fullest.

Frances was a quiet and mostly unassuming woman whose actions spoke volumes of her character. Although a bit stubborn at times, she had the kindest, most caring heart, and never passed up anyone in need. With a deep love for Jesus Christ, Frances lived her faith every day, and regularly attended Prairieville Bible Church. Her greatest joy was found in her grandchildren and great grandchildren, who she adored. One of her great granddaughters was even named after her: Elli Frances. Frances loved her role as a mother and grandmother, and she was happy wherever she was as long as she was with family. In fact, all the family gatherings were at her house, and she undoubtedly made them very special. Frances was a great cook and made many delicious meals; some of her family’s favorites included her homemade noodles and cranberry chicken. She liked to travel with her family too and had been to Mackinaw with her grandson and saw the big city lights of New York City with her daughter, Diane. In her quieter moments at home, Frances enjoyed listening to music by Lawrence Welk, and watching Green Valley Jamboree. She was never truly idle, as her hands were always busy, sewing quilts or crocheting something beautiful. And she was truly never alone either as she had a family dog or cat keeping her company. Some of her favorites pets being Mellie, Posey and Clifford.

Although Frances will be greatly missed, her legacy of love and dedication leaves her loved ones with wonderful memories and a strong foundation to look to for comfort.

Frances Hayes, age 94, of Plainwell, MI passed away on Monday, July 21, 2014, at the Life Care Center. Visit with her family and friends and view her life story film on Monday, July 28, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Prairieville Bible Church; 12711 S M 43 Hwy, Delton, MI 49046 (269 671-4193). A funeral will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the same location.

Frances’ family includes her children: Butch Hayes, Diane Timmerman; grandchildren: Chad (Leslie) Timmerman, Karen (Al) Ullrich; four great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry, daughter Joanne, son-in-law Eldon and her five siblings. Please visit Frances’ memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can read her life story, archive a memory or photo and sign her memory book online. Memorial donations can be made to Prairieville Bible Church or ROI of Kalamazoo.