Frances Irene Wilson

Her mother’s second marriage was to Cleates Wayne “Butch” Mobbs, who became a devoted stepfather to Frances and the glue of her Arkansas family — a steady, grounding presence whose love and support meant the world to her.

Frances was a bright and curious student with a deep love of science. She pursued her passion at Louisiana State University, earning a degree in microbiology. That early dedication to science and service would go on to shape the rest of her life.

After settling in Colorado, Frances built a distinguished career at Colorado State University, where she worked in the Student Health Center Laboratory for more than 35 years, eventually leading the lab. Her quiet expertise, steady presence, and deep sense of responsibility made her a beloved and respected figure among students and colleagues alike.

Outside of her career, Frances led a life rich with passion, talent, and adventure. She was a lifelong horse lover and a devoted advocate for their care and well-being. Her deep bond with animals, especially her beloved horses — Fairfax, Flying Bailey, Sugarboy, Rusty, Codabob, and Aragon — was a defining part of who she was.

Frances was an accomplished equestrian and a many-time Colorado Hunter Jumper Association State Champion. Her dedication, grace, and determination in the ring earned her both respect and admiration throughout the riding community. Horses were not just a hobby for Frances — they were lifelong companions, teachers, and a source of great joy.

Her fearless spirit extended beyond the stables. Frances was also a four-time SCCA Class E Autocross State Champion, competing in auto racing with the same sharp instincts and calm focus that defined her character in all areas of life. Whether behind the wheel or on horseback, she was a quiet force — determined, talented, and fiercely independent.

Frances was first married to Prescott Foster Bailey and later to Peter Leroy Passman. She was the loving mother of three children: Prescott Foster Bailey Jr., Katelin Rose Passman, and Wyatt Peter Passman. She is survived by her sons, Foster and Wyatt, and by their wives, Megan Grace Bailey and Christina Lynn Passman, who will carry forward her memory with love and gratitude.

Frances was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Katelin, who passed away tragically and unexpectedly at the age of 30. The loss of Katelin remained an ache in Frances’s heart, and we find comfort now in the thought that mother and daughter are reunited — their bond unbroken and eternal.

She is also survived by her cherished grandsons: Tyler Bryant Oakley, Jason Michael Bailey, and Ryder Wyatt Passman. Her legacy lives on in each of them — in their strength, curiosity, and sense of wonder.

Frances is also preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Forrest and Irene Wilson, maternal grandparents, Gustaf and Emily Girnus, stepmother, Joyce Wilson, three brothers: Forrest Michael Wilson, James Albert Wilson and Patrick Joseph Wilson and one sister: Emilie Wilson Roggio, brother-in-law, Max Teeter, stepbrothers: John Karber and Greg Karber.

Frances is further survived by her siblings: Loretta Ann Wilson, Frederick William Wilson, Roberta Wilson Teeter, Anthony Phillip Wilson, stepbrothers, Phil Karber, Stan Karber and Kent Karber, as well as by her stepfather, Cleates Wayne “Butch” Mobbs, who remained a deeply important figure in her life. She also leaves behind extended family, dear friends, and a legacy of quiet strength and unwavering love.

Frances lived her life with quiet faith, deep compassion, and steadfast love. She asked for little, gave much, and never sought the spotlight — but her light was unmistakable to those who knew her. She loved deeply, worked humbly, and lived with integrity.

Though our hearts grieve her passing, we find peace in knowing that she is now at rest in the arms of the Lord, reunited with her beloved daughter Katelin, and surrounded by the everlasting grace she believed in. Her soul is free, her spirit unburdened, and her love continues to echo in the lives of those she touched.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.”

— Matthew 25:21

A memorial service to celebrate Frances’s life will be held in Nashville AR on Saturday, September 5th, 2026. More details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements are complete.