OBITUARY: Frances Louise West

Frances Louise West (Francie)

February 4, 1940 – November 12, 2024

Frances Louise West, known to all as Francie, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2024, at the age of 84. She was born on February 4, 1940, in Wasco County, Oregon, to Dorothy Margaret Fouts of South Dakota and Virgil Owen West of Oregon.

A proud homemaker, Francie dedicated her life to caring for her family. She was known for cooking three hot meals a day, sewing, and creating beautiful quilts. She spent many years making special clothes for her daughter Rona, including a side saddle dress and a May Day dress. Sewing and quilting were her passions, and she also enjoyed painting pictures.

Francie loved to play bridge and golf, and her adventurous spirit took her and Jim on many memorable trips around the world. Together, they traveled to Australia, Ireland, Denmark, Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, Italy, Washington D.C., and Canada. She was also the proud Gilliam County Fair Grand Marshal and served as the Gilliam County Rodeo Queen.

Above all, Francie was deeply devoted to her family, especially her grandchildren. She was an active part of their lives, taking them to the ranch, attending Vacation Bible School, playing in the hot tub, swimming, and teaching them how to cook. She and Jim were always present at 4-H and FFA events, sitting proudly in the stands with beaming smiles, supporting their grandkids with love and encouragement.

Francie was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her children: Mark, Dean, Rona (Marty), Karen (Rocky), Tamara, Susie, and George (Sebrina), along with her grandchildren: Tanner, Colter, Jessica, David, Paul, Luke, Dominic, Nicole, and Katie, and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jim, and her brother Mick.

A memorial service to celebrate Francie's life was held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Methodist Church of Arlington in Arlington, OR.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Francie's memory to the Gilliam County Auction Committee, PO Box 471, Arlington, OR 97812.

Francie's legacy of love, devotion to family, and generous spirit will be remembered by all who knew her. Her impact on the lives of her family, friends, and community will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Please leave your condolence messages for the family at sweeneypaytonmortuary.com.