of Little Rock, AR
August 22, 1942 - May 4, 2022
Frances Annette James was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. She left this world on May 4th, 2022 after a long battle with Alzheimer's and a brief but courageous fight with cancer.
She was born on August 22nd, 1942 in Carlisle, Arkansas to Richard and Myrl Carpenter. After graduating from high school, she attended Central Baptist College in Conway, Arkansas where she obtained an associate's degree. Frances moved to the big city-Little Rock-after college and worked at the governor's office for then governor Winthrop Rockefeller. During this time, she frequently couriered her younger sisters, Sherri and Glenda, to Little Rock from Carlisle, taking them shopping and showing them the sights. It was in Little Rock, while working at Retail Credit with Betty Griffis (nee James), that she met her future husband, Ray James (Betty's brother), one stormy night. After 10 years off and on, they finally decided to marry on May 7th, 1972-the best decision Ray ever made. Frances died just 3 days shy of what would have been their 50th wedding anniversary. She was wonderful with children and with Ray had 3 kids that she cherished.
Frances worked for 35 years as a surgery scheduler at St. Vincent Infirmary and Baptist Medical Center before retiring in 2006. She then spent several years taking art classes at UALR, taking trips to see her beloved kids and grandkids, and making the best thanksgiving dressing that, despite their best attempts, her children will never be able to recreate. She was a self-taught pianist and amazing artist before Alzheimer's took hold. Frances loved the Lord and was a Church pianist and Sunday school teacher. She was a member of West Heights Baptist Church and then Temple Baptist Church (now South City Church) for many years.
She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Ray James, her three children- Jason James (Christina), Amy Lake (Patrick), and Carrie Sokol (Set), 8 grandchildren - Madeline, Garrett, Elliot, Marie, Wyatt, Cora, Calvin, and Errol, 5 brothers and sisters - Karen, Doyne, Benny, Sherri, and Glenda. She is predeceased by her parents and one sister, Doris Jean.
A funeral service is scheduled for 2:00 P.M. on Monday, May 9, 2022 at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Arkansas. Visitation will be Sunday, May 8, 2022 from 4:00 6:00 P.M. at the funeral home.
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8 Condolence(s)
Tricia Hackney Loveless
Friday, January 6, 2023
I’m so very sorry that I missed Frans funeral. We went to West Heights Baptist church together. I loved her and her family. We were in same Sunday School class. I think she must have been born with a smile, because she always had one and spoke softly. I get pictures and messages from her kids. Love from Tricia.
Alexa Rea
Sunday, May 29, 2022
My mom, Helen Juanita Rea (Webb) and I just found out. I'm so sorry we missed her service and seeing other family members. Before the pandemic I would see her almost every Sunday at Rock Creek with Ray. She gave great hugs and would introduce me to Ray, when reminded who I was, lol. She always smiled when she saw me. She was always so sweet even when I was just an annoying little kid. She will be missed greatly.
Sondra Moore
Tuesday, May 10, 2022
Praying for the James family! Mrs. Fran was such a sweet person and will be greatly missed. I enjoyed the few times I got to see her and Ray at my mom and dad's house (usually picking up figs). I know she is having a wonderful time in heaven where her mind and body is healed. Will continue to pray for you all in coming days! With Love - Sondra Tollett-Moore
Phyllis Rye
Monday, May 9, 2022
So sorry to hear of Fran’s death.
She was a very patient, kind & gracious lady. Phillip Rye spent lots of good & funny times with Jason @ their home in LR.
She was youthful. I never would have thought she was 1 month older than
my husband, Doug.
From Phyllis Rye
Carlon Carr Hollis
Sunday, May 8, 2022
When we were young we spent many hours as cousins laughing and playing with one another. She was so gracious to come to my Mother’s service. We hadn’t seen one another for years but recognized each other immediately. Praying God’s comfort for each of you left behind to mourn.
James Deere
Sunday, May 8, 2022
Sorry for your loss
Felissa Williams
Sunday, May 8, 2022
Our sincere condolences goes out to the James Family. Mrs James was a ray of sunshine, loving and kind in all our memories of attending West Heights Missionary Baptist Church. May God wrap His arms around you and fill your heart. Love Gladys Dotson family (Gladys, Andre, Kisha and Felissa)
Cecily Coffelt Bullard
Friday, May 6, 2022
It breaks my heart to learn that Precious Frances has died. Doris Jean was closer to my age but Karen, Frances, Sherri & Glenda are wonderful little Sisters. I am an only child so these girls were special to me. The family members will be in my thoughts as you struggle to understand you have to continue on with your daily lives without Frances. Love you all.