Frances M. Forbes Reese 1928-2025

She was born April 28, 1928, in Argillite, Kentucky, the daughter of the late Meredith and Mary Sullivan Forbes.

As a young woman, Frances moved to Ohio, where she built her life and raised her family. She will be fondly remembered by her children, the late Arlita Williams, Harry R. Reese, Audrey Colegrove, Beverly Dugan, Ronald Reese and his wife, Roslyn Torella, and Bryan Reese and his wife, Ofelia. She leaves behind a legacy of 14 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. She also is survived by her sister, Joyce Kemper of Flatwoods, Kentucky.

Frances was known for her tough, no-nonsense spirit and for her cooking — favorites included Puerto Rican Rice and enchiladas. Each late summer, she enjoyed canning vegetables, ensuring her pantry and family were well-stocked. She also loved to travel, with memorable trips to Ireland, Canada and to visit family across the United States. After raising her children, she worked as an in-home caregiver for many years. In addition to raising her own children, she also helped raise the late Shirley Waller, who was considered part of her family.

A devout Christian, Frances lived her faith with strength and conviction. She was a charter member of Christian Fellowship Tabernacle of Youngstown. For many years, she helped spread the gospel, bringing faith, compassion and comfort to the residents of the Windsor House during her visits.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Thomas Glenn, James, Donald and M. Robert Forbes; and her sisters, Mary Belle Gehringer and Judy Barney, all of whom were from Kentucky.

Private graveside services were held for the family. Her daughter, Arlita Williams, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus and reunited with her mother on Sept. 16, 2025. Frances was laid to rest in Zion Lutheran Cemetery in New Middletown.

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