Frances Washburn's Obituary
Frances E. Washburn, 86, of Vandalia, IL, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 26, 2025 at SBL Fayette County Hospital Long Term Care.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, May 30, 2025 at Hohlt & File Funeral Home, Vandalia with Rev. John Heicher officiating. Interment will follow in Fairlawn Cemetery, Vandalia. Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM, Thursday, May 29, 2025 at Hohlt & File Funeral Home, Vandalia and one hour prior to services on Friday. In lieu of flowers and gifts memorials may be made to the Lighthouse Pregnancy Center. Online condolences can be expressed at www.hohltandfilefh.com
Frances Elaine Willms was born on May 28, 1938 in rural Brownstown, IL, the daughter of Harry E. and Fanny (Oberlink) Willms. She married the love of her life, James Ronald “Ron” Washburn on January 31, 1959. Together, they celebrated 66 years of marriage and raised two sons.
Frances was employed by the family business, Mid-State Camper Sales, as a bookkeeper for 56 years. She attended Trinity Chapel, rural St. Elmo (Post Oak). Frances enjoyed baking, reading, giving to others, and most of all, she cherished the time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren.
She will forever be remembered by her husband, Ron Washburn of Vandalia; sons, Kevin Washburn and wife Tami and Scott Washburn and wife Karen, both of Vandalia; sister, Mary Katherine “Toots” Ellicott of Morrison; grandchildren, Jacob, Cristian, and Micael; great-grandchildren, Hudson and Layla; extended family and friends.
Mrs. Washburn was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Gerald Willms, Frederick Willms Sr., and H. Donald Willms.
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