Frances Irene Counts

Frances I. Counts, 89, of Frankfort, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, September 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family in the comfort of her home.

Born on December 12, 1935, in New Vienna, Ohio, Frances was the cherished daughter of the late George H. and Mazie (Fout) Bower. As the third of eight children, Frances grew up in a home filled with warmth, laughter, and enduring love-a foundation that shaped her gentle spirit and unwavering devotion to family.

On May 8, 1954, Frances married the love of her life, John H. Counts. Together, they built a life rooted in partnership, hard work, and joy, sharing nearly 55 wonderful years before Johnny's passing in 2009.

Frances is survived by her three devoted children: John Michael (Christina) Counts of Hamilton, Ohio; June Michele (Greg) Wayland of Frankfort, Ohio; and Jill Marie (Shad Dailey) Morgan of Chillicothe, Ohio. She was a proud and loving grandmother to five grandchildren-Christopher (Mary) Counts, Sarah (Wesley) Wood, Matthew (Laura) Counts, Allison (Josey) Wells, and Joshua Morgan. Twelve great-grandchildren brought her endless joy: Cole Counts, Grace Townsend, Rory Summers, Lauren Counts, Christopher Counts, Levi Wood, Owen Wood, Harper Counts, Mazie Wood, Carter John Counts, Zoey Irene Wells, and Laken Wells.

She is also survived by her beloved siblings Maggie Ackley, Ben (Liann) Bower, Juni (Kelvin) Putnam, Charlie (Tami) Bower, and Linda (Jim) Johnson; sister-in-law Lorraine Counts; and many nieces and nephews who will carry forward her legacy of family.

Frances was preceded in death by her husband John; her parents; her father and mother-in-law Charles and Bernice Counts; her siblings JoAnne (Robert) Schmauss and Harry Lee (Patty) Bower; brother-in-law Sam Ackley; brothers-in-law Wendell Counts, Charles (Ann) Counts, and Dale (Tonya) Counts; sister-in-law Luella (Raymond) Francis; best friend Dottie Watts; and cherished dear companion Ivan Ely.

A 1953 graduate of Unioto High School, Frances was crowned homecoming queen and later honored as Miss Ross County-early reflections of her poise, charm, and caring personality. She began her career at the Veteran's Administration canteen and Albers Super Market in Chillicothe, later working at the Columbus Army Depot.

Frances was a vital part of the family's businesses in Frankfort, supporting Johnny in the operation of Johnny's Sinclair, Arco, and Union 76 stations, and working tirelessly behind the scenes and at the counter at Johnny's Carryout. Her dedication and work ethic were matched only by her warmth toward customers and community.

In retirement, Frances found joy in volunteering with reading programs at Adena Elementary, cheering on her grandchildren in sports and music, and playing cards with her dear friends, the "Rummy Dummies." She was a faithful member of Old Town Heritage Church, Frankfort and the Eastern Star Chapter, Chillicothe #419.

Above all, Frances was a woman of deep love-her family was her world. Her home was a haven of laughter, stories, and unconditional support. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she nurtured, inspired, and loved so well.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at Ebright Funeral Home, Frankfort, with Pastor Neil Foster officiating. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery, Frankfort. Friends may call at the funeral home from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM prior to the service on October 1.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Old Town Heritage Church (formerly Frankfort United Methodist Church) PO Box 266, Frankfort, Ohio 45628 or the Ross County Humane Society, 2308 Lick Run Rd #A, Chillicothe, Ohio 45601 or by clicking the link www.rosscountyhumanesociety.org/donate.