Obituary of Frances Elkins

DOB 09/25/1931 DOD 06/30/2026 Written by the family. Frances M. (Brooks) Elkins, 94, of Othello, Washington, passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior on June 30, 2026, at Coventry House in Othello. Frances was born on September 25, 1931, at her family home in Mooresburg, Tennessee, to Commodore and Mae Brooks. She grew up in the hills of East Tennessee, where she accepted Christ as her Savior and was baptized at the age of 12 following a revival at Big Hill Church. Her faith became the foundation of her life and remained her steadfast guide through every season. On December 23, 1950, Frances married the love of her life, Roy Henry Elkins, at First Baptist Church in Morristown, Tennessee. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and serving others. In 1956, they moved to Washington, where they ultimately settled in Othello and raised their family. They became devoted members of Othello First Baptist Church. Frances faithfully taught Sunday school for many years and quietly demonstrated Christ’s love through her kindness, generosity, and a servant’s heart. Family was Fran’s greatest joy and life’s calling. She treasured every opportunity to care for her children and grandchildren, even leaving her job so she could spend her days caring for them. She faithfully attended their school programs, sporting events, recitals, and milestones, making sure each one knew they were deeply loved. Her home was a place where family gathered often, sharing meals, holidays, laughter, and lasting memories. Frances had a gift for making people feel welcome. She was known for her warm smile, gentle spirit, and willingness to help anyone in need, whether by preparing a meal, lending a hand, or simply offering encouragement. Friends and family will fondly remember her delicious brownies, creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh cup of coffee never far from reach, afternoons spent working word search puzzles, and long phone calls catching up with loved ones back in Tennessee. Frances and Roy also shared a love of travel. Together they explored the country in their motorhome and especially enjoyed returning to Tennessee to spend time with family and friends. Her favorite Scripture, Proverbs 3:5–6, reflected the way she lived: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Her favorite hymn, Blessed Assurance, beautifully expresses the hope and confidence she carried throughout her life. Frances was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 54 years, Roy Henry Elkins; her parents, Commodore and Mae Brooks; and her siblings, Elsie Wolfe, Alva Trent, Imogene Livesay, John Brooks, Minnie Carpenter, Agnes Coffey, and Donald Brooks. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Doug (Jeanie) Elkins, Debra (Chris) Leman, and Teresa (Mike) Black; her grandchildren, Josh (Amanda) Dannenmann, Brooke (Angelo) Espinosa, Ashley (Justin) Elkins, Lexie (Chris) Zuver, Travis (Jolene) Mohs, and Michael (Kaelesha) Black; her fourteen great-grandchildren: Victoria, Bailey, Mackenzie, Brayden, Angelo Jr., Dylan, Melanie, Aiden, Will, Michael, Kennedy, Maelynn, Maverick, and Adalyn, two great great grandchildren Adelina and Clementine, siblings Bill (Heide) Brooks and Joyce House as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Frances leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, unconditional love, and quiet service. She taught her family that the greatest ministry is often found in everyday acts of kindness, faithful prayers, open doors, and a seat around the family table. While she will be deeply missed, her family rejoices in the assurance that she is now reunited with Roy and is forever home with her Savior. A graveside service will be held at Bess Hampton Memorial Gardens on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.