Frances Connaway was born October 14, 1920, in Texico, Illinois, to Harry Hayworth Connaway and Joe Anna Darnell Connaway. She married Claude Lee Overstreet in 1942. Frances was predeceased by her parents, her brother, Harold Ray, and her husband.
The Overstreets traveled the world with the military. One of the highlights of Frances’ life occurred while they were stationed in Japan in 1948. Claude and Frances were assigned to escort Helen Keller and her companion, Polly Thomson, during their 5 day visit to Japan following World War II. Riding in military cars, surrounded by military security, Claude and Frances accompanied the two women on a goodwill tour of Japan. A very special moment for Frances was when Polly Thompson spelled out “Mrs. Overstreet” in Helen Keller’s palm and, in her faltering voice, Helen said, “Nice to meet you, Mrs. Overstreet.”
When Claude retired from the military, Frances went to work for USAA in San Antonio. Although she did not have a college degree, she rose to Director of Payroll at this huge organization. Frances obtained her college degree after she retired from USAA and was very proud of this achievement.
Upon Claude’s passing in 1998, Frances developed a personal ministry of helping widows heal from the loss of their husbands. She took them to her mountain cabin for time away from the distractions of home. If they wanted to be alone, she gave them space. If they wanted to talk, she was there. And, of course, she fed them well.
Frances is survived by three children: Claudene (George) Lopez, Claude (Cheryl) Overstreet and Twila (Barry) Bowden. Her grandchildren are Dagny, Samantha and Tony Lopez and Georgette (Ryan) Helpingstine; Susan(Aaron) Lyon and Brian (Victoria) Overstreet; John (Jasmyn) Bowden and Lynn (Marc) Robertson. Frances has 20 great grandchildren.
Frances died May 1, 2020 of COVID-19 in Mt. Vernon, Illinois. She always said, “you never know what you will have to do to get out of this world.” For Frances, it took a Global Pandemic.
Because of the unusual times in which we are living, a virtual memorial service has been streamed from the Alamo Heights United Methodist Church. To view the service, please go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZiBnyOioE5M
Memorial donations may be sent to the Senior Ministry at Alamo Heights United Methodist Church, 825 E. Basse Road, San Antonio, Texas 78209. Online condolences may be made at www.osbornfuneral.com, or on the Osborn Funeral Home Facebook page.