Frances Alvena Halmich

Frances Alvena Halmich, a loving mother, grandmother, and faithful servant, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2023, at the age of 94. Born on May 4, 1929, in Crawford County, MO. Frances was the daughter of the late Fred Lee and Delphia Ann (Lefler) Gilliam.

Frances graduated from Belgrade High School in 1947 and began her career at International Shoe in St. Louis, MO. After her marriage, she dedicated her life to being a homemaker and caring for her family.

In 1949, Frances married Leon Beers, and they were blessed with three children, Ron, Tom, and Judy. The family lived in St. Louis in their early years, moving to Sullivan in 1958. Leon passed away in 1960, and Frances later married Clifford Halmich on May 4, 1973 to which she was blessed to inherit her daughter, Brenda.  Clifford passed away in 2007.

Frances was an incredibly determined woman who could accomplish anything she set her mind to, including cutting wood with a chainsaw, and painting the barn. She enjoyed sewing, tending to her flower garden, and attending church at First Baptist in Stanton, where she served in many areas, including as treasurer for forty-four years, Sunday School and Bible school teacher, and choir member.

Frances is survived by her daughter, Brenda Thomas and husband Steve of Sullivan, MO; four grandchildren, Michael Thomas of Hannibal, MO, Jennifer Mesger and husband Josh, Brittany Mesger and husband Matt, and Zachary Thomas, all of Sullivan, MO; a great-grandson, Clifford Mesger; a daughter-in-law, Robyn Beers of Warrenton, MO; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and good friends, including her church family at Stanton First Baptist.

She was preceded in death by her three beloved children, Ronald and Thomas Beers and Judy Ann Beers; her two husbands, Leon Beers and Clifford Halmich; two brothers, Harold and Bufford Gilliam; and twin sisters in infancy, Thelma and Marple.

Frances was a faith-filled woman who leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication to her church community. Her unwavering faith and devotion to her loved ones will be cherished and remembered by all who knew her.

As we celebrate the life and memory of Frances Alvena Halmich, we are reminded of the beauty and strength she brought to this world. Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and her memory will be a guiding light for generations to come.

 Services were held 12 p.m., Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at First Baptist Church of Stanton with Pastor Jerry Beers officiating. Burial followed at Stanton Cemetery, Stanton, MO. 

 Visitation was at 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Tuesday, prior to the service at the church.

 Memorial Contributions may be given in Frances’ memory to St. Louis Society for the Blind & Visually Impaired.

Condolences may be shared online with Frances’ family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.

 Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.