Frances Olson

Frances A. Olson passed away January 7, 2017 in Artesia, New Mexico at the age of 97.

Fran was born in Holdenville, Oklahoma on August 29, 1919 to Elijah "Eguy" and Mary Ann "Mollie" McRay. She was the last surviving member of her generation and lived the longest. She was proceeded in death by her parents, three brothers, three sisters and her husband, Al Olson.

Fran was a professional and gave both piano and organ music lessons. She spent over two years playing the organ at noon every day at the local veteran's home. Fran was also an artist and was widely known for her beautiful windmills, Southwest landscapes and Indian art. She painted the mural in the baptistry at the Church of Christ on Third Street in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico.

Fran attended church in Caballo and was a close friend of pastor Jim Wood. She was very active in her community. She was formerly a member of The Ladies of the Elks, VFW Post 1389 Ladies Auxillary in Elephant Butte and Ladies Auxillary American Legion as well as a "Pink Lady" at the Sierra Vista Hospital. Fran and two other ladies organized "The Seniors Alone Club". She soon became the coordinator and a year later grew to 144 members. The club is still active and very successful under the leadership of Norma Grant.

Fran is survived by four precious and wonderful daughters: Mary Ann Sperry of Houston, Texas, Sharon Starr and her husband, Cactus of Artesia, New Mexico, Kay Pennington and her husband, John of Belton, Texas, and Molly Gerwe and her husband, Jeff of Oro Valley, Arizona. She is also survived by 52 much loved and precious Grand, Great and Great-great grandchildren. She also leaves behind 4 nephews as well as her much loved friends: Norma Grant, Carol Kirikos and Donna Draskovic.

A private, family memorial service was held in Artesia, New Mexico