Frances Marion Smoak

 Frances Owens Smoak June 16, 1949 – November 14, 2024

Frances Owens Smoak, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She was born on June 16, 1949, and spent her life surrounded by family and cherished friends who will remember her generosity, compassion, kindness, and strength. Her life was filled with devotion to her family, and she found great joy in upholding family traditions, especially through cooking, baking, and sewing. She also loved the beach, finding peace in its views and sounds. Frances was an avid supporter of SOAPS and ARF of Jesup, reflecting her love for animals and her dedication to the community. 

Frances was a stay-at-home mom until all her children began school, she was the heart of her home. She poured her energy and love into creating a nurturing environment where her children felt safe, loved, and supported. Her early years were filled with the laughter of her children, homemade meals, and countless small, quiet acts of love that shaped her family’s lives. Frances dedicated much of her professional life to serving as a secretary and bookkeeper, known for her integrity and commitment. Her contributions were honored with the Secretary of the Year award by the Appling County Chamber of Commerce during her years at M&S Steel, where she worked with distinction. She also held positions at TOC and Appling Healthcare System, working diligently until she retired due to health reasons in 2000. Beyond her career, Frances was deeply invested in her community through volunteering at the We Care Pregnancy Center, Called to Love, and helping with the Nutra Pac.

Frances is survived by her brother Charles "Bubba" (Priscilla) Owens of South Carolina; sisters Peggy Rackley, Patty (Raymond) Hembree of North Carolina and Kathy Bennett (late Johnny) of South Carolina; daughters Lyrissa Smoak of Baxley, Ann Michele (Robert) Toole of Vidalia, and Torie (Michael) Watson of Baxley; son Jesse (Allison) Smoak of Baxley; and former husband and father of her children, Joel (Shonda Yawn) Smoak. She was the proud grandmother of Cody (Brittany) Smoak, Thomas (Taylor) Watson, Abby Smoak, Madison Toole, Mason Toole, Tyler Watson, Tucker Watson, Megan Smoak, Hailey Bishop, and Jaden Smoak; and the great-grandmother of Annalee Watson, Jacie Claire Smith, and Bryson Smoak. Frances also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, and special friends Ellen Black, Grace Craven, Sandra Bryant, Susan Taylor, Julia Miles, Teresa Pearson, Pat Miles, and Sherri Beecher who were dear to her heart and provided comfort and care in her later years. She is also survived by a special puppy she lovingly called “Boo Boo.”

She was preceded in death by her father, Luis Marion Owens; her stepfather, Robert Keifer; her mother, Mae Keifer; sister; Shirley Anne Johnson, and her beloved son, Thomas Joel "Jody" Smoak.

Frances will be remembered for her deep love of family and her steadfast devotion to those close to her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and everyone fortunate enough to have known her.

Funeral services will be held Monday, November 18, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Swain Funeral Home with Rev. Tommy Daniels officiating. Interment will follow in Appling Memorial Gardens.

Active Pallbearers: Cody Smoak, Thomas Watson, Mason Toole, Tyler Watson, Tucker Watson, and Trevor Cabaniss.

Honorary Pallbearers: Staff at Lakeview, Hospice of South Georgia and Ten Mile Women of Prayer.

 The visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

The family will receive friends on 5533 Ten Mile Rd., Baxley, GA.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.