Frances Herd Carswell

Frances was born on September 10, 1926 in Pickens, SC to Glenn Benson Herd and Lillie Fortner Herd. She provided exceptional support and care to them as their only child. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son-in-law David Smith.

Frances moved to Winston-Salem in 1966 where she selflessly devoted her life to raising her 3 daughters and then later supporting their families. She loved her grandchildren and most recently adored her great grandson. Whether shopping at the mall, watching T-ball, soccer, or high school football, Frances loved to see her grandchildren enjoying life. Recently she enjoyed visits from her great grandson. Her face lit up when she saw him.

Frances worked at AMP Incorporated for many years, culminating her career as a supervisor on 3rd shift, retiring at age 70.

Those privileged to know Frances were aware of her strong spirit and endless determination. She was a talented gardener. Her love of flowers and birdwatching resulted in a yard that was always a haven for birds with her beautiful flowerbeds, birdbaths, and full feeders. Her lifelong enthusiasm for gardening provided a foundation for her daughters who now enjoy their own gardens.

She was an excellent cook, enjoyed decorating her home with beautiful decorations for all holidays, and was a lifelong Clemson football fan. Christmas was her favorite holiday including the music, decorations, and gift giving. She especially enjoyed the traditions of taking her daughters to The Nutcracker Ballet and the Craftsman’s Christmas Classic craft show the day after Thanksgiving.

Along with her physical strength and ability to handle rigorous yard work, she also loved wearing a dress with high heels to church on Sundays, complete with matching accessories. She was a long-time member of Wallburg Baptist Church where she was a leader of the Girls in Action (GA) program which broadened teens' awareness of Christian missions, the Bible, and prayer. She later attended Heritage Hills Baptist Church. Her unwavering faith guided her through every season of life.

Frances was a great supporter of music in her daughters’ lives as they were very involved in church choir, and various Christian singing groups throughout Winston-Salem. She enjoyed trips for fall leaf peeping, picnics, short trips to D.C. or the mountains which allowed her some precious moments with her daughters.

Frances was one of a kind and will be dearly missed. Those who survive to cherish her memories are her 3 daughters, Wallye Carswell Jones (Gordon), Kim Carswell (the late David), and Pamela Carswell Crum (Charlie); grandchildren Andrew Jones (Jessica Reyes), Charlotte Crum, Grace Crum, and great grandson James Jones.

Frances was able to live at home until recently. The family would like to express our sincere thanks to the staff of Brookridge and Trellis Supportive Care for the care she received during the past 18 months.

A memorial service will be held in The Mausoleum Chapel at Forsyth Memorial Park on Saturday, July 25, at 11 a.m. with Reverend Randy Whitman officiating. Family will receive friends in the funeral home following a graveside service.