Frances Boley Oliver, 93, passed away on January 4, 2025 at her home in rural Clark County, Missouri with her daughters singing her into the arms of Jesus.
She was born the daughter of Lawrence and Grace (Smith) Boley on December 30, 1931 in Clark County.
Frances graduated as the valedictorian of the Kahoka High School Class of 1949, and went on to Kirksville State Teachers College for two years. She then taught in a one-room school in Clark County called Mt.
Hope for one year during the 51 – 52 school year. In 1952, she attended Moody Bible Institute in Chicago for a year.
On June 6, 1953 she married the love of her life, Leland Guy Oliver, with whom she shared 66 years. He preceded her in death on January 24, 2020.
The Olivers lived in two countries and six different states over the next thirty years. While raising their children, she finished her bachelor’s degree at Harris – Stowe Teacher’s College in St. Louis; and went on to teach at Berean Christian Academy in Irving, Texas; and Faith Christian Academy in Florissant, Missouri. She also enjoyed teaching in many Sunday Schools, camps, Vacation Bible Schools, and AWANA clubs. She was a prolific writer of poetry, and the songs of praise and worship that she wrote were often shared at hymn sings. She considered her greatest joy in life was to hear that each of her children (including those she had taught) walked in truth. Frances was an avid supporter and prayer warrior for countless people and ministries.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Delbert Boley; her brothers and sisters-in-law: Richard and Lavaughn Olson, Glen and Mary Oliver, Howard and Dorothy Oliver, and Raymond Hohl.
She is survived by her three children: Lawrence (Danelle) Oliver, Jean (Walter) Barbier, and Rebecca (Kerry) Parks; grandchildren: John and Amanda Curry, Rosalie Loehr, Jason Loehr, and Teddy Barbier; great grandchildren: Boston Curry, Trenton Robinson, Emerson Loehr, Camden Curry, Violet Loehr, Jackson Curry, and Christopher Loehr; and by her dear friends and sisters-in-law: Ruth Ann Boley and Helen Hohl; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
11 comments
I’m so sorry to read of your mother’s passing. We had just talked a few days before Christmas.
She was a good woman and devout Christian.
She was my favorite teacher at Faith in the late 70’s.
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints. Psalm 116:15. That’s amazing that the God of the universe anticipates our arrival!
I was so sorry to hear of Aunt Frances’ passing. She was a lovely soul and always had a sweet smile and kind word. My prayers to your family during this difficult time.
Your mom was a sweet, gracious lady whose kindness left me with warm memories. It is so sweet to know that we will see her again as well as to think of the reunions she must be having now! Praying for comfort and peace that passes understanding in these days of your loss.
Sending loving thoughts and care for you all as you grieve your mom’s passing.
Hugs,
Mary
Your mother was precious. She made sure that I knew Uncle Richard and Aunt Lavonne had accepted the Lord as Savior. I still have the lovely letter she wrote me. She will be missed by many. My Aunt Virginia Peterson truly loved her. Praying for all who loved her.
So sorry to learn of your mom’s passing. She was truly a special lady that I am so grateful to have known throughout my growing up years in Hazelwood. She exuded God’s love to all she came into contact with. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
It was a great honor in life to be a co-laborer with the Oliver family. With no exaggeration, Frances was a Godly woman who lived her faith well. A call home for a worthy saint.
I’ll always remember the light in her eyes when she taught the children at camp and her unusual way of writing down music in her own special code. I think of the scripture verse in Proverbs 11:16, “A gracious woman retains honor” when I think of Frances. We Loved her. Pam Blaine
I am so sorry to hear of Aunt Frances’ passing. You are all in my thoughts. I hope your fond memories of her will help you through your grief.
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