Frances Ellison Bailey

Frances Ellison Bailey, a spirited and faith-filled soul, completed her earthly journey on January 3, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on April 10, 1935, in the warm and welcoming community of Headland, Alabama, Frances was a beacon of strength and independence throughout her life. Her final days were spent in Dothan, Alabama, surrounded by the love and care of her family and friends.

Frances, known for her strong will and headstrong nature, navigated life on her own terms. She was a proud graduate of Headland High School and moved to Dothan in the 1950s, where she would go on to establish a remarkable career. For 35 years, Frances dedicated herself to her role as an Office Manager at Dothan Manufacturing, where her diligence and professionalism were a testament to her work ethic.

Her passion for life extended beyond her professional endeavors. Frances was an avid sports fan, with a particular love for NASCAR and football. Sundays were sacred to her, reserved for watching the races and cheering on her favorite player, Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs. Her commitment to her faith was equally evident, as she would also partake in four different church services every Sunday morning on television.

Frances's commitment to her community was demonstrated through her active involvement in various associations. She was a cherished member of Southside Baptist Church and was a member of the First United Methodist Church. She also enjoyed her Garden Club for years. Her community spirit also shown brightly when she and Selden actively supported The Elks Club. Beyond her social engagements, Frances was deeply dedicated to her family, especially in caring for her mother at Extendicare for over a decade before her passing.

Remembered by her family as the happiest when surrounded by loved ones, Frances's presence at family functions was always a source of joy. She leaves behind a legacy of love and caring that will be cherished by her sisters, Charlotte Williams and Monette Crowder; brothers, Danny Earl Ellison, Larry Ellison, and Jerry Ellison; several nieces and nephews, including her special niece, Scarlett McDaniel; her dear friends, Anna Jane Owens and Lawanda Henderson, and by her stepchildren, Dean Bailey, Chip Bailey, and Carol Calton. Frances joins her husband, Selden Bailey, her parents, James and Daisy Peterson Ellison, her siblings Joan Prophitt, Sarah Parramore, and Billy Ellison, who preceded her in death.

A celebration of Frances's life will be held at 2 pm on Monday, January 6, 2025, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Lynn Nesbitt officiating. Visitation for family and friends will precede the service from 1-2 pm. Frances will then be laid to rest in Memory Hill Cemetery in a private ceremony on Tuesday morning, where she will be remembered for her passionate and spirited nature. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Salvation Army, https://www.salvationarmyusa.orgIt is said that "The only way to do great work is to love what you do." This quote by Steve Jobs encapsulates the essence of Frances's approach to her life and career. Her love for what she did, her dedication to her family, and her unwavering faith were the cornerstones of a life well-lived her own way.

Frances Bailey's memory will be carried forward by all who knew her as a remarkable woman whose life was filled with purpose, care, and an unyielding zest for the things she loved. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have felt her influence.