Frances Ann Thums

Frances Ann Thums, 92, of Sweet Home, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, just two days shy of her 93rd birthday. She lived a full and vibrant life marked by deep faith, strong family ties, a spirit of adventure, and a lifelong love of the outdoors.

Frances was born on March 23, 1933, in Rib Lake, Wisconsin. In August of 1937, she moved with her family to Oregon, where she would spend much of her life. She briefly worked in Eugene before relocating to California, where she lived with her sisters in the Bay Area and worked for various insurance companies.

In 1970, Frances returned to Sweet Home to help care for her parents. What began as an act of devotion became a lifelong commitment, as she remained there for the rest of her years. Her love for her family was at the center of everything she did, and she was a constant source of support, strength, and warmth.

Frances had a deep appreciation for travel and adventure. She explored countries around the world, including many throughout Europe, and took a particularly special trip to China. These journeys were made even more meaningful as she always traveled alongside her beloved sisters, sharing experiences and creating lifelong memories together.

A woman of deep faith, Frances was a devoted Catholic and a longtime parishioner at St. Helen in Sweet Home. Her faith guided her life, shaping her kindness, generosity, and quiet strength.

An active and energetic woman, Frances found joy in many pursuits. She loved playing tennis, skiing, biking along quiet country roads, taking ballet lessons, practicing the piano, and was an avid reader of classic literature. She also enjoyed gardening, hiking, and walking her dogs. She played an important role in her family's logging business, often driving parts up into the Cascade Mountains to support operations.

Frances also had a special fondness for Shirley Temple memorabilia. She collected news clippings, photographs, and dolls, and shared how much she admired Shirley Temple and the remarkable career she built.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Joe, and her sister Hildegarde. She is survived by her siblings Mary and Herbert, and her nephew Michael and his wife Gail, along with their three children Aidan, Elise and Amalie, who will forever cherish her adventurous spirit, her kindness, and her unwavering love.

Frances had a joyful spirit and a love for life's simple pleasures. If you happen to enjoy a Mai Tai, please raise a glass in her honor, remembering the joy she brought to so many.

Her life was one of quiet strength, deep loyalty, and joyful exploration, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at St. Helen Catholic Church in Sweet Home. The rosary service will begin at 11:00 am. Funeral mass will be at 11:30 am. Final burial will be at I.O.O.F Cemetery in Lebanon. Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling arrangements.