Mary Frances Carnes Abbott

Mary Frances passed away June 4, 2017. She was predeceased by her husband of more than 60 years, Jerry Abbott, and is survived by daughters Mary Abbott Harkins (Patrick), Martha Abbott White (Mike), sister Barbara Carnes Cavanaugh (Vic), and brother-in-law Bill Abbott (Marian). She was the beloved Mom-Mom, Granny, and Mary Aunt Frances to Carnes White, Lilli Harkins, Clay Harkins, nephews, nieces, and their children. Mary Frances was a graduate of Phillips High School, and Stratford College, Danville, Virginia. Mary Frances and Jerry met at First Presbyterian Church Birmingham, and were married there in 1954. She enjoyed participating her daughters’ activities, including the Crestline Elementary PTA, and their high school sororities. A true football fan, she and Jerry traveled all over the state to cheer on the Mountain Brook Spartans to two back-to-back state championships. Her fall Saturdays were spent pulling for the Crimson Tide.

She loved needlework, especially needlepoint, knitting, and cross-stitch. Family and friends were grateful recipients of her beautiful work, and she particularly enjoyed knitting sweaters for babies at the church.

At First Presbyterian, she taught children’s Sunday school and vacation Bible school for many years, and was an Honorary Life Member of Presbyterian Women. A gracious hostess, she loved cooking and entertaining family and friends. She was a long-time member of the St. Vincent’s Hospital Auxiliary and served as Auxiliary President from 1974 – 1976.

Genealogy was her passion and she traveled around the country researching the history of her family. She was a member and held several offices in the General Sumter Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Mary Frances was also a member of the Colonial Dames XVII Century. She was a state delegate to National Conferences and also held several officer positions.

Visitation will be held Friday, June 9th from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Ridout’s Valley Chapel in Homewood. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, June 10th at First Presbyterian Church followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall. Remembrances may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 2100 4th Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203.