Shining Star

Every family has a shining star, someone that stands out and works to keep the family together.   My family has been lucky to have been blessed with more than one of these stars, and My Great-Aunt Frances Anderson was one of these that shown as bright as the stars in all the sky.   She was responsible for so many wonderful gatherings that united immediate and extended family.   She was there with my grandmother and me during a dark period in both of our lives, and accepted me no matter who I was. On more than one occasion taught me that people will love me no matter what… or how different I am.   My family lost this wonderful person last night, but we each gained another guardian angel. While our hearts grieve for her no longer being here with us, for the games of Phase 10 that will never occur… or the songs sung. We know that she will be in our hearts, in the smiles that we see, and in the love we have for one another.   Though she will be missed, we will always feel the love she gave us and we will always love her.

Frances Anderson

1932-2011

Brandon

Frances Eley Anderson, 79, died Monday, May 16, 2011 at Crossgates River Oaks Hospital. Funeral services are 2:00pm Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at Bethel Baptist Church in Brandon with interment in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends 12:00-2:00pm Wednesday at the church.

Mrs. Anderson was an active member of Bethel Baptist Church and the Red Hatters of Pearl, as well as a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary.

Survivors include her husband of 60 years, J.W. "Andy" Anderson, Jr.; son, Dale Anderson (Libby); grandchildren, Jennifer Layton O'Neal (David) and Walter Dale Anderson, Jr.; great-grandson, Thomas Maguire; brother, Henry Hawthorne; and sisters, Louise Wixson, Sarah Haskins, Annette Creel, Betty Dulworth, Clara Reid and Margaret Hawthorne. (from: clarionleger.com obits)

Journey

 As I look at life so dear,

I know the journey is clear.

For the journey I’m on is like no other,

so I know I must go further.

Do not weep for me my loved ones true,

for I will always be with you.

Although you could not go with me,

now my heart is filled with glee.

But in your hearts I will dwell,

and that will do you well.

And I will see you from above,

not unlike a passing dove.

I hope to see you smile,

as you go another mile.

But to you it may seem odd,

that I am now with my God.