Frances M Burgess

Mary Frances “Fran” Munford Burgess, 85, of Jonesboro went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, June 8, 2021.

She passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at the Phil and Flo Jones Hospice House in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

She was born October 26, 1935 in Crossett, Arkansas to Francis and Margaret Munford.   She was preceded in death by her parents and an infant brother, James Frank.  She was a graduate of Crossett High School, Southern State College, and received her Master’s in Education from the University of Central Arkansas.

In her own words, “the things that give me a sense of pride were being a Christian, having a wonderful family and friends, being well educated, and having a successful teaching career, with recognition”.  She retired from Jonesboro High School after teaching 29 years. During her career she received the Arkansas Business Teacher of the Year award, was selected Jonesboro Teacher of the Year, and was certified as a master teacher by the University of Texas.   She was loved by her students who have fondly talked about her light, joy, smile, and what a wonderful teacher she was.  Fran was always famous for her hospitality, as she offered food and a drink to everyone that visited her home.  Everybody had to be prepared for smiles and hugs when they encountered Fran.

Her love for her family was exceptional, leaving a legacy of love with her children, grandchildren, and great- grandchildren; as well as extended family members.  She treasured every moment with them.  She had a servant’s heart and was devoted to her family and friends.  She especially enjoyed her loving couples Sunday School Class.  She was a living example of her favorite Bible verse, 1 Corinthians 13, which tells us what Christian love should be.  Her other hobbies included reading, Bridge, and playing the piano. She had a special talent for writing poetry and often wrote poems for family, friends and for special occasions.  Fran and David enjoyed traveling after their retirement.

She was a devoted member of Central Baptist Church and the Agape Sunday School Class.  Fran and David were founding members of the adult couples Sunday school classes at Central Baptist Church, 47 years ago.

She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Dr. David Burgess of the home; children Tim Richards (Cindy) of Plano, TX, Laurie Schubert of Little Rock, AR, and Lynn White (Jeremy) of Jonesboro, AR; grandchildren Lindsey Casey (Josh) of Willisville, AR, Will Richards (fiancé Lindsay) of Dallas, TX, Leslie Herring of Magnolia, AR, Haley Richards of Plano, TX,  Andrew White (fiancé Sarah) of Havre, MT, and Jordan White of Jonesboro. She also has 5 great grandchildren.

The visitation will be held from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at Emerson Funeral Home prior to the service.

The funeral will be held at 2:00p.m. on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at Emerson Funeral Home with Don Blackmore officiating.  Burial will follow at Jonesboro Memorial Park with Will Richards, Andrew White, Jordan White, Jeremy White, Josh Casey, and Reid Casey serving as pallbearers. The honorary pallbearers will be the Agape Sunday School Class.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Central Baptist Church building fund, Flo and Phil Jones Hospice or Gideons international.