"My heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the family, Remember the days of old special moments spent together, valuable lessons given or comforting words shared together can all be a source of comfort as you cope with such a tremendous loss, May you receive much love and support. "
In loving memory of
Frances Mary King
October 4, 1923 - April 10, 2022
Frances Mary Payzant King
Our dear mother, Frances, died April 10, 2022. She was born in 1923, to Alma and Robie Payzant of Omaha, Nebraska. Frances was bright, skipped several grades, and graduated at age 16 at the top of her class. She attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln on scholarship and taught elementary school to help finance her education as she earned a bachelor's degree.
Frances married H. Franklin King in 1946, creating a wonderful union of 61 years until Frank died in 2007. As Dad served Presbyterian churches, Frances served as minister's wife to several congregations around Nebraska as their family grew to include three daughters -- Nancy, Marilyn and Janet.
Frances taught school in a one room schoolhouse and later in an elementary school in Alliance, Nebraska. Later in life, she helped students learn to read in Grand Island.
Mom brought the arts into our lives. Music filled our home, as Mom played piano after putting us to bed. She played beautifully and sang solos at church. She also taught many piano lessons each week, had us painting on an easel in the backyard, and tap danced from one side of the kitchen to the other as she cooked!
Along with three kids, a dog and Grandma King, Frances and Frank set off every summer for a month in a tent. These adventures took us to most of the national parks of the western USA. Everyone had to play their part - set up the tent, blow up the air mattresses and roast marshmallows around the fire. These are some of our fondest adventures and memories.
Mother demonstrated great empathy for others, often pointing out how others might feel. Our parents were active in the civil rights movement and tried to integrate churches in Omaha. She opened her home to people from all nationalities, hosting several missionaries and Native Americans. She also cared for her aging parents and for Frank's mother, all of whom lived with us at various times.
In later years, Frances and Frank traveled to Ecuador, Singapore and Thailand, and Alaska. Frances is survived by daughters, Nancy King, widowed, Marilyn King and spouse Jim Huddleston, Janet Moheng and spouse Dean Moheng. Surviving grandchildren include Theresa Trompke and spouse Tim, Lois Rader and spouse Ryan, Lorraine Moheng, Larry Moheng and Kyle Moheng.
Frances, our dear and amazing mother, will always live in our hearts. We miss her.
Memorial Service 10:00 A.M., Saturday, June 4, 2022 at Forest Lawn Funeral Home. Burial at Forest Lawn Cemetery.