Frances Hall Summitt

Frances H. Summitt, born in Pensacola, FL, was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished member of her community. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on April 20, 2024.

She was the cherished only child of Jay L. Hall and Margaret Hyer Hall. She attended and graduated from Leon High School and matriculated to Florida State Women’s College, where she cultivated lifelong friendships and a love for learning.

In a testament to enduring love, Frances married her high school sweetheart, Henry Summitt (H.C.), in a secret ceremony in Cairo, GA, on February 12, 1948, before publicly exchanging vows in 1950. Their love story was one of devotion and partnership, enduring until H.C.'s passing.

Frances was a woman of unwavering faith, finding comfort and community at Pine Hill Baptist Church in Cairo. Her commitment to her faith was a guiding light throughout her life.

With a passion for life, she found joy in traveling and delighting in the beauty of nature, though she made it clear that yard work was not her preferred outdoor activity. She had a special fondness for animals, especially dogs, whose companionship brought her immeasurable joy.

Above all, Frances cherished her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, H.C. Summitt, Jr., their daughter Vann Summitt, and son-in-law Earl Pevey.

She is survived by her loving children Jay Summitt (Marge), Molly Pevey and Bebe Thedford (Ricky). She is also survived by her dear sister/cousin Bunny Smith as well as her beloved sister in law Alice Summitt Englert with whom she shared a bond that transcended familial ties.

Frances leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth that extends through generations. She will be dearly missed by her grandchildren, Jennifer (Terry), Josh (Jennifer), Pamela, Carol Jean (Derek), Vann (Scooter), Taran, Shane (Kalyne), Emma (Cliff), Addie (Zac), and Hank (Alex); granddaughter-in-law Beth as well as her 21 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and countless friends that she loved dearly.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at the Southern Pines Assisted Living in Thomasville for the great care and compassion they’ve shown to their mother.

A visitation to honor Frances's memory will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at Culley’s Funeral Home – Riggins Road Chapel. A graveside service will be conducted at Roselawn Cemetery in Tallahassee on Sunday, April 28, 2024, at 2:00pm.