News Summary
Gilbert, South Carolina, is in mourning following the peaceful passing of Sarah Frances Harmon Shealy at age 87. A cherished community member, Frances was known for her vibrant personality, love for sports, and dedication to family. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience and love, with a funeral service planned to honor her life.
Gilbert, SC Mourns the Loss of Beloved Resident Sarah Frances Harmon Shealy
Gilbert, South Carolina, has lost one of its cherished residents, Sarah Frances Harmon Shealy, who peacefully passed away at the age of 87 on Sunday, February 2, 2025. Known affectionately as “Nana” to her family, Frances was a vibrant figure in the community and left a lasting impact on those who had the pleasure of knowing her.
A Life Rooted in South Carolina
Frances was born in White Rock, SC, and grew up in nearby Lexington, where she attended school with great enthusiasm. She graduated from Lexington High School in 1956, marking the beginning of a life filled with love, dedication, and joy.
During her life, she balanced her love for family and spirited hobbies. Frances was not just a doting grandmother; she was also a passionate reader and a sports enthusiast. She drew inspiration and joy from rooting for her favorite teams, being a die-hard fan of both Gamecock Football and Basketball. The Atlanta Braves also held a special place in her heart, further demonstrating her love for sports and community engagement.
A Family Matriarch
Frances enjoyed a long and happy marriage with her husband, Rembert Blease Shealy, Jr., with whom she shared 57 wonderful years until his passing in 2014. Together, they built a loving home filled with warmth and laughter. Frances is survived by her three children: Rembert Blease “RB” Shealy, III, Virginia “Jenny” Brantley, and Anna Lucas (married to Doug). Each of her children carries forward her legacy of love and commitment.
Generations of Love
Frances was not just a mother, but a proud grandmother to several grandchildren who will forever cherish the wonderful memories they created together. Her grandchildren include Lee Shealy (married to Hillary), Ryan Shealy, Taylor Arnold (married to Michael), and Reverend Parker Lucas (married to Michelle). Frances also had the joy of watching her family grow with great-grandchildren, including Cami O’Cain, Brynlee Shealy, Blythe and Eliza Jane Arnold, and Ryelee Shealy.
A Legacy of Resilience
Her life story, however, was not without heartache. Frances mourned the loss of her parents, Milford Leon Harmon and Orrie Belle Swygert Harmon, as well as her husband and one of her sons, Milford Godfrey Shealy. She also faced the sorrow of losing several brothers and other beloved family members. Yet, through it all, she exhibited a spirit of resilience that was truly inspiring.
Community Support and Farewell
The family expresses their sincere gratitude to Tiffany Callery and Crystal Rushton of Three Oaks Hospice for their compassionate care during Frances’s last days, providing comfort and support to both her and her loved ones.
Memorial Arrangements
A funeral service to honor Frances’s life is scheduled for 11 AM on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Barr-Price Funeral Home and Crematorium, located at 609 Northwood Road, Lexington, SC 29072. Following the service, Frances will be laid to rest at Pilgrim Lutheran Church.
Friends and family are invited to gather for a time of remembrance one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Mt. Hebron Lutheran Church or Pilgrim Lutheran Church, both of which were significant in Frances’s life and faith.
Frances leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and community spirit that will not soon be forgotten.
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Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
- Post and Courier
- Google Search: grief counseling resources
- ABC11
- Google Scholar: community grief support
- Cremation Society of SC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: grief
- WLTX
- Google News: local news South Carolina
