It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mrs. Frances Marie Smith-Holt, age 82, of Livingston, who left this world on a peaceful day surrounded by love. Frances touched the lives of everyone she met, and her spirit will forever remain in our hearts. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at Hatcher Hall Cemetery, where we invite family and friends to gather in remembrance of her remarkable life. A Celebration of Life service will follow on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at the First Christian Church, starting at 2 p.m., with visitation beginning at 1 p.m.

Frances was born on January 24, 1942, to Arnold Van Smith and Agnes Sells Smith, growing up as the youngest and last surviving child in a lively household of nine. From her early years, she showed an adventurous spirit and a fierce determination. She graduated from Livingston Academy in 1960 and went on to attend the University of Tennessee, where her dreams began to take shape.

In 1962, she bravely moved to Indiana, where she met, John "Jack" Heldenbrand. Together, they created a warm and loving home for their three children—Jennifer, Melissa, and the late John. Frances dedicated herself to her family, nurturing their dreams while also pursuing her own. Her compassion for others led her to complete her LPN training, and she worked tirelessly in hospitals and doctor’s offices, earning the love and respect of her colleagues and patients alike.

In 1985, Frances embraced a new chapter as a Subway franchisee, where she poured her heart into serving her community for 21 years. But her creativity truly blossomed as she ventured into her own business, Custom Slip Covers and More, upon returning to Tennessee. Friends and family fondly remember her beautiful handmade home décor items, each crafted with love and care.

Frances found joy and fulfillment in her faith as a devoted member of the First Christian Church, where she became an integral part of the community in 2008. In 2020, she married Billy Joe Holt, a partnership filled with love and shared devotion to their church and family.

Frances's legacy lives on through her loving husband, Billy Joe; her daughters, Jennifer Zervas and Melissa Heldenbrand; her cherished grandchildren, Aryn Marie Schounce (and husband Nicholas Zuckerman), Alecia Proefrock, Spencer Proefrock (and wife Katie), Levi Holt (and wife Caroline), Lucas Holt (and wife Liz), C.J. Ramsey, and Jayce Monroe (and husband Eric); and her precious great-grandchildren, Atticus and Henry Zuckerman, Luca, Abel, Lettie, Laramie, Bonnie Rose, Will, Tucker, Emsley, Mila, and Winslow. David Holt(and wife Donna) and Mary Joe Holt Trudel. Her loyal dog, "Jack," was always by her side, bringing her endless joy. Frances also held dear her large extended family and countless friends, all of whom she loved so deeply.

She was welcomed into heaven by her son, John Warren Heldenbrand, and her siblings: Christine Daniel, Inogene Smith, Claris Stover, Ruth Kennedy, Ray Smith, Ralph Smith, Charles Smith, and Juanita Smith. Her first husband, Jack Heldenbrand.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital or the American Cancer Society, honoring her spirit of generosity and compassion for those in need.

Frances Marie Smith-Holt was more than a mother, grandmother, wife, and friend; she was a beacon of light to all who knew her. Her laughter, kindness, and indomitable spirit will be missed but never forgotten. We invite you to join us in celebrating her remarkable life and the incredible love she shared with us all.