Frances Ottilia Holt Covert

Born May 15, 1933, in Akron, Ohio, Frances was the daughter of Philetus H. Holt II and Ottilia D. Holt. Frances grew up in Summit, New Jersey, with her younger brother, Phil (Philetus H. Holt IV). She attended Kent Place School in Summit for high school. In 1956, she graduated from Vassar College with a major in child psychology. After working at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston for several years, Frances married Roger A. Covert, a metallurgist, in 1964. They had two daughters, Sarah Frances Covert and Hannah Holt Covert whom they raised in Middletown, New Jersey. The family also lived in London, England, for two years in the mid-1970s. Frances and Roger moved to Athens, Georgia, in 2005.

With an eye for details and thoroughness, Frances was known for mastering anything she put her mind to. She was an intentional and devoted mother who nurtured her daughters’ curiosity, creativity, and accomplishments. As a grandmother, she was fun, engaged, and indulgent. She was a remarkable cook, regularly preparing recipes from Julia Child’s Mastering the Art of French Cooking for everyday dinners, as well as a skilled seamstress, needlework artist, and gardener. Frances masterminded many family celebrations and culinary traditions that are continued to this day. She adored children and was particularly concerned about child development and welfare, giving generously to these causes.

While living in Middletown, New Jersey, Frances contributed her intellect and energy to several community organizations. She was a member of the Junior League and volunteered for the League of Women Voters. She served on the vestry of Christ Episcopal Church, where she also participated in altar guild and many outreach programs. She was a trustee of the Middletown Township Public Library Board. She led educational programs on colonial history at the Murray Farmhouse at Poricy Park.

Frances connected easily with people because of her natural curiosity and genuine interest in their well-being. As an active member of St. Gregory the Great Episcopal Church in Athens, Georgia, Frances often volunteered to support others. Frances moved to Arbor Terrace Athens in October 2023 where she enjoyed making new friends, participating in activities, and visiting the garden. Her family is profoundly grateful for the care, kindness, and support provided by the Arbor Terrace community, Agape Hospice, and Ann Micklefield. Frances was devoted to her family and friends, and she was loved deeply in return. Words cannot express how she will be missed.

Frances is survived by her daughter Sarah (Athens, Georgia) and her husband Patrick O'Connor, her daughter Hannah (Swarthmore, Pennsylvania) and her partner, Chris Fox, and her three grandchildren: Aydan Roger Covert O'Connor, Siena Frances Covert O'Connor, and Coraline Ferne Covert-Fox. She is also survived by her niece Elizabeth Holt and her nephew Stephen Holt and his family. She was predeceased by her husband (2009) and her brother (2010).

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at a time to be announced, at St. Gregory the Great Episcopal Church with the Rev. Nikki Mathis officiating. Inurnment will follow in Oconee Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Ark United Ministry Outreach Center, 640 Barber St., Ste. A, Athens, GA 30601; Athens-Oconee CASA, 693 N. Pope St., Athens, GA 30601; or St. Gregory the Great Episcopal Church, 3195 Barnett Shoals Rd., Athens, GA 30606.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.