Frances Ruth Austin, 79, of Mt. Vernon passed away Monday morning, November 20, 2017 at Mt. Vernon Countryside Manor. She was born in Salem, IL on April 18, 1938, the daughter of Cecil & Vera (Floyd) Brown. She first married James Lemons, she then married Samuel Austin. She was a homemaker for many years before becoming a nurse. She was a member of the West Side Baptist Church. Frances was preceded in death by her Parents, by 2 Brothers- David Brown & Cecil Brown, by a Sister-Norma Jean Lemons, by 3 Daughters-Pamela Sue Lemons, Brenda Kay Lemons & Vera June Lemons.

Frances is survived by her 3 Sons: James Lemons & wife Paula of Belleville, Clyde Lemons & wife Brenda of Bonnie, Dennis Lemons & wife Kim of Ina. Daughter, Tina Fletcher & husband David of Mt. Vernon. 5 Grandchildren: Heather Wagoner of Morehouse, MO, Jeremiah Lemons of Bonnie, Stephen Lemons & wife Kaci of Mt. Vernon, Samantha Fletcher of Mt. Vernon,Kyle Fletcher of Mt. Vernon. 3 Great-Grandchildren: Anthony Scott of Mt. Vernon, Kenleigh Lemons of Mt. Vernon, Ethan Fletcher of Mt. Vernon. 2 Sisters: Patty Sheridan & husband Junior of Ava, Mary Myers of Mt. Vernon, 1 Brother: Dennis Brown & wife Mary Lou of Ashley and several Nieces & Nephews.

Frances loved to spend time with her children & grandchildren. She could always be seen with a good romance or western book in her hand.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, November 25th from 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. at the Bonnie Community Building.

The Johnston Funeral Home in Ina is in charge of arrangements.