Mary Frances Ennis

June 1, 2026. Although she resided in Claxton, at her death, she was formerly a longtime resident of Bulloch County. Born on November 2, 1949, Frances’ greatest joy in life was her family. Frances loved traveling, especially trips to the beach. She enjoyed tending to her flowers and vegetable garden, never passed up a good bargain while shopping, and loved collecting owls. She was well known for her cooking abilities, especially her caramel cake, which she proudly brought to celebrations with family. She was a 1968 Honor Graduate of Claxton High School and enjoyed attending her recent 58th Year Class Reunion. Frances was a woman of strong faith. She attended Faith Baptist Church in Daisy, Georgia. She retired from the UGA Cooperative Extension Service and continued serving others through volunteer work with their Senior Companion Program for several years following retirement.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph "Dick" Stanfield and Effie Stanfield; infant sister, Bonnie Stanfield; husbands, Prentis Strickland and Rick Ennis; children, Leslie Strickland and Matthew Ennis; and grandson, Nicholas Kicklighter. Frances is survived by her daughters, Crystal Strickland of Gainesville, Georgia, and Wendy (Eddie) Futch of Pembroke, Georgia; her granddaughter, Rachel Ball of Gainesville, Georgia; and four grandsons; son In-law, David Ball of Jefferson, Georgia.

She is also survived by her siblings: Midget (Elton) Driggers of Groveland, Georgia; Gail (Durrell) Purvis; Pearl (Bobby) Barnard; Johnny (Patricia) Stanfield of Augusta, Georgia; Scotty Stanfield; Cissy (David DeLoach) Palmer; Jimmy Stanfield; and Irene Stanfield, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members, all who will deeply miss her love, guidance, and warm presence. Frances held a special place in her heart for her great-nieces, Isabella Haire and Cree Deal, who loved helping her with special projects.

Visitation: Saturday, June 6, 2026, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home.

Funeral: Saturday, June 6, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in Claxton, Georgia.

Interment will follow at Brewton Cemetery in Hagan, Georgia, officiated by Bro. Tom Shepard.

Pallbearers: Joe Driggers, Tony Odom, John Marshall Headrick, Heath Strickland, Donavon Stanfield, and Albert Rushing.

Frances will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her faith, and the countless meals, traditions, and memories she shared with those fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of love will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Remembrances: Brewton Cemetery, P.O. Box 798, Claxton, Ga., 30417

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

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