After 98 years of a blessed, fulfilling, and wonderful life, on October 26, 2024, Frances Edna Thompson Kerr has gone to reap her heavenly rewards. Born to James and Florence Thompson, the second to last of her siblings. Frances was the very last offspring to continue the John and Ann Thompson (her paternal grandparents) Family Legacy.

Frances, who was born and raised in rural Virginia, dreamed of a life beyond that of a farmer's wife. In 1944, after graduating high school, she and her youngest sister, Gladys, made the life-changing decision to move to Harlem, NY, with their oldest sister, Alberta. There were few opportunities in Virginia at the time, and while leaving home was bittersweet, they set off on a Greyhound Bus for the very first time, arriving in NYC on D-Day. The bustling City, towering buildings, and fast pace were a far cry from their small-town roots in Nottoway County, VA, but the sisters quickly adapted to this new and exciting world

Frances and Gladys, only two years apart, were inseparable. They had attended the same classes all through school. Since Alberta would not let them ever separate, their first job together was in a button factory, followed by work together at Wallace Paper Box Factory, both in NYC. Riding the subway and buses, as well as exploring the City, became part of their daily routine. During that time, Frances built a vibrant social life, meeting new friends, going out regularly, and attending Union Baptist Church on Sundays. Life was good.

When their older brother, Johnny, returned from the army in 1946, he joined them in NYC, and the three would often drive back to Virginia to visit family. Even when faced with car troubles or minimal funds, their faith and determination always saw them through. On one occasion, they had to physically push Johnnys car downhill on 146th Street in Harlem, NY to get it started but that didn't stop them from going to Virginia. On another occasion, Johnny had to drive without headlights and follow traffic in order to see his way clear. Many times, they had $30 total among them (no money for breakdowns). No doubt, along with their Mom and Dad's prayers, God was with them.

In 1946, Frances and Ernest met through her cousin, Rudy Thompson. Rudy had a friend named Ernest Kerr, and he thought the two should meet. Ernest believed, "Well, Rudy's a good-looking guy, maybe his cousin is cute, too." At the time, Rudy and Ernest were selling perfumes and bath salts, which provided the perfect excuse for the visit. Both Frances and Gladys ended up buying some of their perfumes. As the evening came to a close, Frances surprised them by taking Ernest out to dinner. In August 1947, Frances and Ernest married and welcomed their first daughter, Barbara, in December 1948. Though their joy was tempered by the tragic loss of their second daughter, Laverne, at just 15 months old, they remained a devoted family, building a life, first in Brooklyn, NY, and then Bronx, NY.

In 1962, Frances began working at Royal Globe Insurance Company in NYC as a Clerk in the Underwriting Department, where she spent 23 years before retiring in 1985.

Throughout Frances' life, her faith remained a constant. A devoted member of Second Canaan Baptist Church on Lenox Avenue in Harlem, NY, she remained active in the congregation for over 64 years.

Frances and Ernest enjoyed a happy retirement living in Harlem, NY, often taking trips to Yonkers Racetrack and indulging in Frances' favorite pastime-shopping at thrift stores.

Their marriage, spanning nearly seven decades, was a testament to their deep love and commitment. After Ernest's passing in 2016, Frances continued to hold onto her faith.

With the recent loss of her beloved sister, Gladys, in July 2024, Frances was deeply saddened as both sisters had shared countless life experiences and cherished memories for over 95 years.

Despite minor health challenges in her years, Frances' belief in God never wavered. Her motto was always God is Good. She remained surrounded by love and loyalty until her peaceful passing.

Frances is survived by her devoted daughter and son-in-law, Barbara and Ronald Williams; grandson, Shawn (errie) Williams, who was like a son; great-grandsons, Supreme (Marisela) Williams and Jalen Williams; great-great-grandson, Jeremiah Williams, and great-great granddaughter, Skylar Williams.

Frances cherished her nieces and nephews: Florence (immy-deceased) Nash; Alberta Wright (Tiny-deceased); Cynthia (Warren) Stovell, and daughter, Alicia Walton; Gail (Kenneth) Reeves; Herbert (Jeanette) Albert; Ronald (Denise-deceased) Albert; Joyce (Anthony-deceased) Church; Sharon (Earl) Ebron; Kendal (Wilma) Albert; and special cousins: Otis Hill, Mary Johnson, Edith Smith, Sondra Walker, and Sarah Thompson.

Frances is also survived by her sisters-in-law: Jane Weatherspoon, Betty Richardson, and Nell Rashford; niece, Dorothy Shirley; and a large extended family of very special relatives.

Frances was blessed with many long-lasting friendships: particularly, Mrs. Lydia Reavis; Mr.

George (Mike) Berry; Mrs. Virginia Favors; Mrs. Maybelle Tillman; and Mr. and Mrs. Herbert and June Long.

Frances' faith, love, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. May she rest in eternal and blissful peace.