Frances L White

Frances L. White, born on February 20, 1939, in San Antonio, Texas, to the late Reverend Robert J. Martin and Carrie E. Black-Martin, peacefully entered eternal rest on December 6, 2025, in Austin, Texas. Although a native of Texas, Frances spent the greater part of her life in Lockport, Illinois, where she built her family, career, and an enduring legacy marked by service, faith, and excellence.

Frances received her early education in Texas, graduating from high school with honors before proceeding directly to college. She enrolled at Huston–Tillotson College-known at the time by its original name-where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1959. During her years at Huston–Tillotson, Frances distinguished herself both academically and athletically. A dedicated competitor, she excelled in basketball and tennis and, in 1956, proudly became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., forming lifelong bonds of sisterhood that she cherished throughout her life.

Frances and Vance A. White were united in marriage on November 14, 1968, sharing a loving and devoted partnership until Vance's passing on February 23, 2019. Together, they cultivated a life grounded in faith, family, and service to their community.

Blessed with a keen intellect and a strong work ethic, Frances enjoyed a successful professional career. She worked for many years as a chemist with Texaco, applying her scientific expertise in a field where African American women were historically underrepresented. She later continued her service-oriented career with the United States Postal Service, where she was respected for her diligence, reliability, and professionalism.

Rooted deeply in her Christian upbringing under the loving guidance of her parents, the Rev. Robert J. Martin and Carrie E. Black-Martin, Frances accepted Christ at an early age. Her faith journey flourished at Second Baptist Church in Joliet, Illinois, where she served faithfully and was beloved for decades. She ministered as pianist for the Children's Choir, directed multiple choirs-including the Men's Choir for special celebrations-and co-created the cherished Bell's Program alongside Dr. Larry Tyler. Through her musical gifts, leadership, and joyful spirit, Frances touched and inspired generations of worshippers.

Music was one of Frances's earliest loves, but it was through her working with children that her gift blossomed into something extraordinary. With patience, a gentle spirit, and an unwavering belief in every child's potential, she transformed lives. Each student that was in her presence felt seen, encouraged, and empowered, as Frances understood that nurturing a child's confidence was just as important as teaching their first notes.

Frances L. White entered eternal rest and is now reunited with others that preceded her in death, her precious infant daughter, loving husband, Vance A. White; her parents, Reverend Robert J. Martin, and Carrie E. Black-Martin; and her beloved siblings, Reverend Clifford Martin, Samuel L. White, Claudia Mae Brazell, and Martha B. Martin-Ferguson.

She is also lovingly remembered by a host of cherished nephews, nieces, friends, and family.