Frances Dolores Backstrom Sowell was an amazing mother, wife, sister, grandmother, aunt, and loyal friend to many. She was born November 15, 1935, in Galveston, Texas to the late Emma Harris and Carson Backstrom.
Frances was baptized at a young age in Galveston, Texas. After graduating from the former Central High School, she advanced her education through Galveston College.
Frances began her career as an LVN at John Sealy hospital and ended her nursing reign as a RN Nurse Manager for the CCU/ICU at the former St. Mary’s Hospital.
As the matriarch of her family and leader in both her public and private life, Frances garnered many positive relationships throughout her life. Devastatingly, on April 30, 2024, her earthly journey was cancelled, and she was rerouted to heaven to spend the rest of eternity with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Frances’ legacy of love, honesty, and guidance will remain within the hearts of her beloved family. She leaves behind four children born to the marriage between her and James C. Johns, Sr. to whom she was married to for 29 years.—James C. Johns, Jr.; Peter V. Johns, Sr. (Beverly); Renetta Roquemore (Darryl); and Pamela J. Roberson (Jeff).
She also leaves behind her sisters Virgail Amos (James); Joette Wood-Patrick (Brent); Kim Wood and Arlene Wood.
Upon entrance into her empty nestor years, Frances met and married Robert L. Sowell to whom she was married to for approximately 35 years. He brought her years of fun, food and happiness. Unfortunately, Robert transitioned on Father’s Day 2015. Also, preceding her in death are her youngest son, Brian Edward Johns; first husband James C. Johns, Sr.; second husband, Robert L. Sowell; her baby brother, Charles Backstrom and her son-in-law, Jeffrey L. Roberson, Sr.
