Frances "Fran" (DeVault) Frady

Frances "Fran" DeVault Frady, went to her heavenly home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 29, 2025, at the age of 85. She passed away peacefully, at home, surrounded by her children.

Fran accepted Christ at the young age of 8 and was a devoted member of Belmont Heights Baptist Church for 48 years. Her faith was the foundation of her life, guiding her in love, compassion, and service to others.

Born to Lawrence C. and Helen Ruth DeVault, Fran graduated from Rule High School in the Class of 1957, where she won first place in the school’s beauty ball and was crowned by none other than Johnny Majors. She also won a middle school spelling bee, a memory she cherished.

Fran lived a full and vibrant life. She was caring, compassionate, and deeply devoted to her family. Holidays and special occasions were her joy, gathering loved ones together for celebrations filled with laughter and warmth. She loved watching her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren play while sipping sweet tea or coffee, giving advice that encouraged others to make wise decisions and enjoy life’s little blessings.

She had a passion for learning, reading the newspaper daily, working crossword puzzles, and enjoying Reader’s Digest—especially the jokes. Some of her favorite things included Big Red chewing gum, Dunkin’ Donuts coffee, strawberry preserves, pralines, popcorn, and chocolate. Gone With the Wind was among her favorite movies, and she loved listening to Elvis, Willie Nelson, and the classic hits of the 1950s.

Fran loved traveling to the beach, the mountains, and places like Dollywood and Daytona Beach. She was fond of fast, beautiful cars. She adored Christmas—decorating her home with lights inside and out and collecting snowmen that brought her joy year after year.

She spent many years as an office manager for an architectural firm and a construction company before retiring at 63. Retirement didn’t slow her down—she began a second career as a substitute teacher at Bearden High School, where she formed lasting friendships with students, faculty, and the B.R.A.T.S.

Fran enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—playing cards with family and friends, laughing, dancing to a good song, watching game shows, and sitcoms with a big bowl of popcorn, and shopping at the mall or local stores. Fran was a beautiful woman who enjoyed fashion and was a trendsetter. Her generous spirit extended to everyone around her; she often offered a helping hand to those in need.

Fran was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence C. and Helen Ruth Devault; her husband of 44 years, Ralph C. Frady; and her son, Jeffrey L. Parton.

She is survived by her children, Tracy Best (Mike), Rhonda Humphrey (Todd), and Mark Frady (Tracy); grandchildren, C.J. Prater, Nathan (Alia) Best and Evan Best, Taylor and Katelyn Frady; great-grandchildren, Elijah King and Nolan Best; her special sister, Charlene Galyon; cousins, Johnnie Marie Sharp, Henry Clevenger, David and Eric Grigsby; along with many dear friends and neighbors.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Tennessee Cancer Specialists and UT Hospice for their compassion and care.

A graveside service will be held for Fran on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery, officiated by Pastor Brandon Moore. All are welcome to join in honoring and celebrating her life.