Frances Dees Echols, 81, of Spanish Fort, Alabama, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2014 after a brief illness. Fran was born in Montgomery, Alabama on June 27, 1933. She was a homemaker who enjoyed music, crafts and travel. She lived in a number of cities during her lifetime including Huntsville, Alabama; Charlotte, North Carolina; Panama City Beach, Florida; and Crossville, Tennessee.

She is survived by her husband of 37 years, William (Bill) Echols; son, Lester Ross (Betty) of Huntsville, Alabama; daughters, Lynn Moore (Eddie) of Lynch, Kentucky , and Leigh Anne Crosby (Brad) of Tallahassee, Florida; grandsons, Brent McFatter of Tallahassee, Florida, Darren McFatter, of Austin, Texas, and Nick Stoudt, of Tallahassee, Florida. She is also survived by stepson, Mike Echols (Sherry) of Springdale, Arkansas and their children Nathaniel Echols and Olivia Echols, as well as Katie Echols, daughter of stepson David Echols who preceded Fran in death. Fran will also be greatly missed by her beloved dog Muffie and her many dear friends and extended family.

A celebration of Fran's life will be held at Westminster Village, Spanish Fort, Alabama on Saturday, July 26, 2014 at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Frances D. Echols Scholarship Fund at Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College, 700 College Road, Cumberland, Kentucky, 40823. Expressions of condolence may be offered at www.hughesfh.com. Arrangements are by Hughes Funeral Home and Crematory, 7951 American Way, Daphne, AL.

Published in the Montgomery Advertiser on July 20, 2014.