of Jonesboro, AR
August 20, 1934 - February 18, 2022
Frances J. ''Fran'' (Van Hooser) Allison, age 87, of Jonesboro, AR, finished this life on February 18, 2022. Born in Broseley, MO on August 20, 1934, to Marcus D. Van Hooser and E. Pauline (Goble) Van Hooser. While she was very young, the family moved from Missouri to Pontiac, MI. It was there she met her husband, George, while he was ''up North'', working between college terms. They married December 6, 1949. When he passed last year, they had been married for 71 years. Early in their careers and marriage, they lived in Oklahoma and Michigan. They returned to Arkansas in 1958, residing in Pocahontas, Rector, Searcy, Corning and finally, since 1978, Jonesboro. Fran and George were married at a younger age that is present custom. Though high school was interrupted by marriage and family, she finished her secondary education by correspondence courses. Fran postponed college for the sake of her children. Three of her four children were grown by the time she received her bachelor's degree in history from Arkansas State University in 1974, where she also attained a master's degree in 1975. Her first education position was at Knobel, AR, where she taught social studies and was the Guidance Counselor. Fran was at Bay, AR, from 1983 to 2008. She enjoyed reading about history, geography, psychology, and people. Fran loved music and had a beautiful soprano voice, valued all different types of music and was particularly fond of classical and vocal. During her life, she conveyed her enthusiasm and fascination for learning to family and students alike. In her position as guidance counselor, Fran positively influenced many students and aided them in making the right personal and career choices. And many through the years have expressed their appreciation to her.
Preceded in death by her parents; husband, George ''G.W.'' Allison, who was a Church of Christ minister; grandson, Brett Allison; son-in-law Dave Shaver.
She is survived by four children, Steve and Dorothy Allison, Ron Allison, Paula Shaver, and Tim and Linda Allison; nine grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Gary Van Hooser and David Van Hooser.
A memorial service will be held 11 am Saturday, February 26, 2022, at the Southwest Church of Christ. Visitation will precede the service beginning at 10:30 am.
Arrangements are under the direction of Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home of Jonesboro.
We here at the Villa are so saddened to hear of Fran's passing, but at the same time, we are happy to know that she will be joining G.W. in the great by and by. We grew to love Ms. Fran during her time with us. Our thoughts and prayers and with each of you during this most difficult time!
Mrs. Allison had such a great impact on my life, as I know she has to so many. I'm thankful for her influence and wisdom as I was figuring out what steps to take after high school. My sincerest condolences to her family and friends right now. Such a wonderful life and person to celebrate. And, wow, 71 years of marriage!
This is my phone number: 520-510-3835 Someone, please call me.
My mother, Mildred Goble, and Frances's mother, Pauline Goble, were sisters and best friends. We lived 30 miles apart in Michigan after everyone in the south moved north to find work in the auto industry.
I remember hearing Frances and her father, Mack, sing duets. He got a little 3"-tape tape recorder and recorded them. She sang beautiful soprano and he sang deep base. What beautiful hymns.
Oh, how I remember my mother announcing to us, "Frances is getting married. Mack gave his consent. We have to go see them and meet the young man." So, away we went to the big white house on Arcadia at Elizabeth Lake in Keego, Harbor. We were told the young man's name was George, so to us he was always George. But we later learned he was a man of many names including G.W. and Chick.
I remember her telling years later, "I was married at 14, had my first baby at 15, my second baby at 16, my third baby at 17, and my fourth baby at 18 (or something like that), then I finished growing up with my children.
About 12 years ago, I began going to the Harding lectureship and sent word to Frances. She asked if we could all meet at a restaurant along the highway on my way to Searcy. The three of us enjoyed so much seeing each other and catching up on extended family news. Each time, she would say, Can't you come home with us and stay a few days About 9 years ago I contacted her and said, "Guess what I am planning to come see you at home finally." But it was too late. She couldn't handle company by then and soon was in an extended care home. I was just a little bit too late.
About two weeks ago I attended the Freed-Hardeman lectureship and came home with Chuck and Donna Conley in Paragould, AR. After I got settled in, I decided once again to go see Frances. I could not find Steve's email, even though we emailed many times last spring. Instead, a few days later I got word from our cousin, Joy, and sister, Elvera, that our sweet Frances had joined our George in heaven. Once again, I was just a little bit too late.
I couldn't even find what city Frances was in until the people I am staying with read the obituaries in the local newspaper and there was Frances. Just half an hour away. I'm coming, Frances. I'm coming. Saturday I will be there and we will say goodbye.
Saddened to hear of Mrs. Allison passing. She touched so many lives while she was teaching at Knobel. Prayers for the family
G.W. And Fran left a lasting affect on the Lord's church. Many are saved from their labors in the Kingdom. Blessings and peace to you who miss them so acutely.
Fran and I carpooled from Bono to Knobel back in the 70's. She was a kind and considerate lady. I have very fond memories of her. Your family is in my prayers.
Jelina Baxter
So sorry too hear about Mrs Fran. We had a lot of conversation when she was at Knobel teaching. I know she will be missed. Praying for peace and comfort for this wonderful family.
Sincere condolences for the loss of your precious mother…may the good Lord bless and comfort you all…
James & LaDonna McMasters
Our sincere condolences to the Allison Family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the Lord comfort and strengthen you today and in the days ahead.
Mrs Allison was a great person she helped me out a lot in school. It is very sad hearing of her passing. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
So sorry for your loss. She was always there to help when I went to Bay. Prayers for the family.
Having worked with Fran all her years at Bay High School, I know she is now rejoicing in God's provision that she lived by. Praying for those loved ones whom she spoke of often.
So sorry for your loss. Praying for the family.
Mrs. Allison was a wonderful teacher and counselor. She helped me in so many ways when I was a student at Knobel. She encouraged me to go into teaching. I've always strived to connect with my students the way she did with hers. She definitely made the world a better place with her presence. She will be greatly missed.
She was a great lady she helped me a lot when I was in school I lost my mother at a young age and she brought me through all of my challenges.....
I worked with Fran at Bay High School for over 20 years. She always encouraged me and gave me good advice on being a stronger Christian. I believe she is in a better place and will have rest for her soul.
Prayers of comfort for each of you. I truly enjoyed working with her during my time at Bay. She touched many.
Sympathy and love to your family.
I am saddened to hear of Fran's passing. She was a wonderful counselor who went above and beyond for students and faculty. Fran made my years at Bay much more pleasant. Condolences to her family.
I had Mrs Allison as a guidance counselor when I was at Bay. She always helped when I needed it. She was a great lady of knowledge. She will be missed.
She was a wonderful lady.
Condolences. I am forever grateful to have her as a councilor during my high school years.
Our heartfelt condolences for you loss. Darrell & Denell
Condolences and prayers to all from the Powers Ohana. The Allisons made us welcome moving into Pocahontas and I'll never, ever forget them. Rest well.
I am so saddened by the news of Fran's death. Fran had a very important presence in my life. She was my mentor, colleague, and most importantly, she was my friend. I will miss her. To Fran's family, my sincere and deepest condolences.
Sorry for your lost. Praying for you
Sorry for your loss, we are praying for all the family.