Frances J. Hedgpeth

Frances Johnson Hedgpeth came into this world on January 7, 1924. She was born in Fort Barnwell, NC, the daughter of Oda and Maebelle (Sauls) Johnson. Most of her adult life she lived in Durham, NC, Marion, OH, N. Myrtle Beach, SC, and, for the past 16 years, in Augusta, GA. She passed away Saturday, the 9th of July at Brandon Wilde in Augusta, GA surrounded by her children.

Her first priority and most treasured assets were her family and the memories they created together. Her devoted husband of 66 years, James (Jim) Hedgpeth, preceded her in death in 2009. Frances will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by her daughters, Fran (Charlie) Isaly of Cincinnati, OH and Lynda (Fred) Lott of Cumming, GA; a son, James (Cristy) Hedgpeth, Jr. of Omaha, NE; grandchildren, Britt (Karen) Isaly of Chicago, IL, Stacie (Eric) Schulze of Alpharetta, GA, Russell (Elizabeth) Isaly of Bellingham, WA, Justin (Amy) Lott of Raleigh, NC, Ryan (Jennifer) Lott of New York City, Alexandra (David) Esarey of Seattle, WA and Katherine Hedgpeth of Omaha, NE; and seven beloved great-grandchildren; and by a brother William (Bill) Johnson of Fort Barnwell, NC; and sister Grace Colhoun of Richmond, VA; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by siblings Cecelia Mills, Lula Field, and Jack Johnson.

Frances was an avid cook, seamstress and gardener. She grew most of her vegetables in her garden and canned, pickled and froze most of what she grew. If it came out of the earth, she ate it! Frances was a strong woman of faith who trusted in the Lord and served her church faithfully in many capacities. She was a lifetime member of P.E.O. Frances and Jim will be remembered as the Pioneers of the Village at Brandon Wilde.

Frances will always be remembered for her warm personality, loyalty and commitment to her
family and friends. Her home was always filled with her friends and the friends of her children. Frances had such spirited, positive and pleasant relationships with all who met her. She died as she lived, with dignity, grace and humility. A true Southern lady, gracious, and always with open arms and heart, her smile and laugher were the gifts we all will cherish. Thankfully now she is at peace, and we are all better people for having loved her. She is with her beloved Jim and her Lord.

The Hedgpeth family expresses its deepest gratitude for the professional and loving care provided to Mrs. Hedgpeth by the staff at Brandon Wilde.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at Brandon Wilde in August. A private family interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, for those who so desire, donations in memory of Frances may be made to a charity of your choice.