Daughter of Mr. Leonard and Mrs. Lillie Mae Thompson, Willie Frances Payne was born in Williamston, Anderson County, South Carolina on October 10, 1929. She completed her early education in that small town.
Seeking greater opportunities, as was the custom during that era, in 1949 Frances moved to New Haven, Connecticut. It was there that she lived for the rest of her life. Her first job in New Haven was in the restaurant business. She later worked in the meat processing industry. Her ultimate work opportunity was with Sikorsky United Technology, building airplanes, where she continued for 26 and a half years until her retirement in 1993.
At an early age, Frances joined Salem Baptist Church and later New Prospect Baptist Church in Williamston. In New Haven, she became a member and worshipped in St. Matthew’s Unison Freewill Baptist Church.
A faithful family member and friend, she made many trips back to her home state of South Carolina for annual visits. Frances was a master seamstress and used her talent and gift to make clothing for herself and others, as well as having taught that skill of sewing to others. All who knew and loved Frances, marveled at her passion for collecting salt and pepper shaker sets, with a collection of several hundred sets. She also enjoyed traveling, playing games, and watching her favorite soap opera shows.
Frances leaves to cherish her memories are her sister, Robbie Jean Thompson; brothers, Willie Thompson and Edward Thompson; special nephew, Stephen Thompson; niece, Ella Jenkins; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, Sylvester Thompson, Leonard Thompson, Jr., and Randolph Thompson.
A celebration of her life will took place Thursday, December 1, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Howard K. Hill Funeral Services, 1287 Chapel St, New Haven, CT 06511. Friends may call Thursday at the funeral home from 10:00 – 11:00 AM. Interment will be at Hamden Plains Cemetery, Hamden. To leave a message of comfort for the Thompson family, please visit, www.hkhfuneralservices.com
