Frances R. Norton

On Saturday afternoon, October 24th, surrounded by her family, Frances R. Norton went to be with her Lord. She had been dealing with heart and lung issues and fought bravely until the end. Her beautiful spirit is now at peace. She was 83. Frances was a woman of great faith and deeds, a humble, lifelong member of the Church of Christ. Her faith gave her strength in many areas of her life. From her family that she loved dearly, to her entrepreneurial spirit, to her belief that she could do whatever she put her mind to, Frances left her mark as a strong, sweet, generous, humble lady. Her family includes Charles Norton, her husband of 62 years. Her person and the love of her life, who she absolutely adored. She has three children: Cathy Gilbert (Roger), Kelley Norton Graham, and Chuck Norton (Lisa). "Grammy”or“Grandmother Frances” has seven Grandchildren, all of whom believed that they were her favorite. Doug Rhea Jr, Joseph Rhea, Jonathan Rhea, Trey Norton, Drew Norton, Abby Graham, and Kayce Graham. Each of them WAS her favorite, and she shared special memories with each of them. Frances was the daughter of the late Kenneth and Grace Rhoten. She was one of six siblings and is survived by sisters Patsy Chapman and Judy Rhoten Holmes. Her other siblings are Jack Rhoten, James Rhoten, and Jessie Cornett, all of whom have passed. She treasured her close, loving family. Frances became an insurance agent in Jefferson City in 1980. She then went on to be only the second female agent appointed in Tennessee with Nationwide Insurance in 1984. Through her business, she began an affiliation with Rotary Club, and eventually was named the first female State President of that organization. She retired as a Nationwide Agent in 1999 to pursue, among many things, Grandmothering, which she did in great earnest. Finally, through it all was her love and service to the Lord. Her home was a Christian home. Frances will be laid to rest in a private graveside at Jefferson Memorial Gardens, with Tim Hall serving as minister. She has requested that, in lieu of flowers, consideration be given to a donation to either Appalachian Outreach or Barnabus Fund (c/o Morristown Church of Christ).