Frances Baxter

Frances Dantzler began her earthly journey on Thursday, January 20, 1944, the sixth of eight children born to loving parents, David Dantzler, Sr., and Lucile Dash Dantzler in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Her parents and three brothers: Edward Dantzler, Sr. (Louise), David Dantzler, Jr. (Ann), and Alonzo Dantzler, Sr. (Lurline Higgett), preceded her in death.

She attended Bull Swamp Baptist Church in her early years. Later in life she was a faithful member of Walnut Grove Baptist Church and was appointed by the pastor to serve as a member on the Mother’s Board. Her energetic Spirit and wisdom provided spiritual guidance, mentorship, and support within the congregation, especially for younger women. Her caring heart, and loving spirit touched everyone she met, providing comfort and healing. Her favorite scripture was Psalm 23 and favorite gospel singers: Lee Williams and Mahalia Jackson.

Frances received her formal education in the Orangeburg Public School System and she later attended Austin Peay State University. She understood at a young age that true accomplishment comes from setting clear goals, persistent effort, and embracing both success and failure as part of the journey. Understanding the profound impact children have on our lives and the importance of unselfish, unconditional love and the presence from parents and caregivers led her to a career in child development. She dedicated countless hours ensuring not only her own children but others entrusted with her care, developed the key aspects of language, thinking abilities, and the understanding of emotions and social interactions.

On Friday, June 30, 1972, Frances united in holy matrimony with Fred Clay Baxte, Srr and this union was blessed with three children.

She was affectionately known as “Ma” to her children and grandchildren whom she loved dearly and enjoyed spending time with them. Her infectious personality inspired everyone she met. She enjoyed cooking for the holidays when the entire family would come down and fill the house with laughter. Her good morning and good night text messages were her signature and if you didn’t get one you knew something was up. She loved shopping for the latest fashions in her favorite color “purple” and wearing some “bad” hats on Sunday y’all. She loved planting flowers collecting Tupperware, singing gospel songs, watching game shows, mostly “Family Feud” and old cop shows such as Barney Jones and Columbo. Her acts of kindness towards people made her a joy to be around. All who knew her, loved her and her presence shall be sorely missed. She was a fighter and an overcomer and a blessing to us all who will be sorely missed and never forgotten.

On Thursday, October 1, 2025, Frances’ earthly journey ended as she transitioned to be with the Lord.

She leaves precious memories to be cherished and shared by her devoted husband of 53 years, Fred Clay Baxter, Sr.; daughters: Sandra LaRose Dantzler, both Clarksville, TN, Sharon LaToya Baxter-Scott (Mitchell), Scott AFB, IL; son, Fred Clay Baxter, Jr. “Ricky”, Chesapeake, VA; three grandchildren: Aurieanna LaSha Baxter, LaThea Unaie Baxter and Alanna LaChel Scott; brother, Wilbur “Pal” (Mary) Dantzler, Washington, DC; sisters: Gussie Dantzler, Pansy (Marion) Thomas and Lucile Dantzler, all of Orangeburg, SC and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, god-daughters, brothers and sisters-in-law, and friends.