Frances Butts Simmons

Frances Butts Simmons, aged 88, of Westminster, SC passed away peacefully on November 15th, 2025 at Prisma Health Cottingham Hospice House while surrounded by loving family.
Frances was born on May 28th, 1937, to Ira Butts and Agnes Davis Butts. She built a remarkable life marked by creativity, dedication, and a deep love for others. She enjoyed a distinguished career as an engineer for Gerber Childrenswear, where she traveled the world working in places such as Egypt, Estonia, and Guatemala. She proudly held two U.S. Patents for her inventions in diaper designs. Her innovative spirit and mastery of fabric touched the lives of countless families.
A devoted member of Nazareth Church, Frances shared her musical gift as the church pianist for many years. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, woven into everything she did, much like the quilts she lovingly created.
Frances lived a life rich with hobbies that reflected her intelligent, creative, and joyful spirit. Music was one of her earliest loves, and she filled countless days with the sound of piano keys-whether playing hymns for her church or simply bringing comfort to those who gathered in her home. She found peace in her garden, tending to flowers and plants with the same care she extended to the people in her life. Her passion for quilting was especially deep and enduring; she adored anything to do with fabric. From choosing patterns to stitching pieces by hand, quilting allowed her to express both artistry and affection. Many of her quilts became cherished gifts-warm, colorful reminders of her love. Frances also had a heart for adventure and enjoyed traveling, especially to the beach and mountains with her daughter and grandson, where the three of them shared some of their most treasured memories. Her connection to her church was woven through all she did, guiding her actions and grounding her in faith. She loved this country deeply and carried a heartfelt sense of patriotism throughout her life. She was also devoted to her cat, Mr. Cloud, who brought companionship, comfort, and a touch of daily laughter and joy to her home.
Frances was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Nelson Severe Simmons, and her cherished daughter, Vicki Ann Davis, and eight brothers and three sisters. She is survived by her grandson, Austin Tripp (Carley Rae Scholter); her sister, Margie Lee; and her twin brother, Burt Butts (Jean Butts), all of Westminster, SC.
Frances, fondly known as 'Nenaw' by her grandson and those closest to her, will be remembered as a warm, welcoming presence whose home was always open. She loved to cook, host, and make everyone feel like family. Her kindness, hospitality, and unwavering love will be forever treasured by those who knew her.
Like the quilts she created, Frances pieced together a life of beauty, faith, and love-each stitch holding a story, each pattern reflecting her brilliance and passion for life. May we always feel wrapped in the warmth of the legacy she left behind.
"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." - Psalm 23:6
A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, November 18th, 2025, at Heritage Memorial Gardens Mausoleum Chapel, with entombment to follow. The family will receive family and friends from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, prior to the service at Heritage Memorial Gardens Mausoleum Chapel.
The family is at their respective homes. Flowers are accepted or memorial donations in Frances's memory may be made to Prisma Health Cottingham Hospice House, Attn: Foundation Office, 298 Memorial Drive, Seneca, SC 29672.
Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.sandiferfuneralhome.com.
SANDIFER FUNERAL HOME IS ASSISTING THE SIMMONS FAMILY