Frances VaLetta McKinnis was born on October 16, 1935, on a dairy farm near Fair Grove, MO. Her parents, Walter and Winnie Carter, were parents to five daughters. Frances was the baby. She attended Fair Grove School, and in April of 1956 she married Roger A. McKinnis following his military service in the U.S. army. They established their home on a portion of the original family farm.
Frances and Roger, also deceased, were blessed with two children, Kevin and Karen. Both children are married and reside near Fran’s lifelong home. Fran’s greatest joy was doting over her two granddaughters, Keitha and Kendra. Throughout the years they almost always caught the school bus at their Grandma’s house.
Fran grew up in a family that was accustomed to hard work. She often talked about getting up before daylight to go milk the cows by hand. That work ethic stuck with her throughout her life. She was tough and strong-willed, but had a soft spot for animals. She especially loved her cats and dogs.
Prior to Roger’s death in 2001, Fran and Roger loved to visit flea markets and antique shops. They were both avid collectors. Fran’s passion was antique cookie jars.
In 2012 Fran suffered a serious injury from a fall. She survived a December night on the ground outside without a coat, once again attesting to her toughness. Due to the life-changing injury from the fall she has spent the past six years at Woodland Manner Nursing Home in Springfield.
Fran is survived by her son Kevin and his wife Diane and their daughters Keitha Hokanson, her husband Adam Hokanson, and Kendra McKinnis. Also surviving are Fran’s daughter Karen McKinnis and her husband Ron Boyer.
Fran was preceded in death by her four sisters: Mae Belle Becker, Wilma Carter, Hazyl Andrus and Dorothy Phillips.
In lieu of flowers, Fran’s family suggests memorial donations go to Hospice Compassus, 1465 E. Primrose, Springfield, MO 65804.
Visitation will be Thursday, February 15, 2018 from 5:00 PM ~ 7:00 PM at Greenlawn Funeral Home North. Graveside services will be Friday, February 16, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Mt Comfort Cemetery North of Springfield.

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