Frances Louise (Nicholson) Stroud

Frances Louise Stroud, 90, of Carterville, passed away Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Parkway Manor in Marion.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with Rev. Ryan Tackett officiating. Burial will be in Willowrest Cemetery in Carterville. Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the First Baptist Church Building Fund or to St. Francis Animal Shelter.

Frances was born on July 22, 1935, in Odin, Illinois, to James Robert and Geneva Fern (Meisenheimer) Nicholson. She married Edward LeRoy Stroud on September 14, 1955, in Odin, Illinois. He preceded her in death on December 4, 2020.

She is survived by her daughter, Karla Smith; sons, Jim Stroud, Ken (Kelly) Stroud, and Mike (Debbie) Stroud; grandchildren, Rachel Stroud, Emily Stroud, Georgia Stroud (Evan Smith), Madelynne Stroud, Rebekah Stroud, John Stroud, Julia Stroud, Jamie (Dan) Cullen, Sarah (Dan) MacDonald; great-grandchildren, Audrey, Keegan, Delaney, and Riley; brother-in-law, Larry (Judy) Stroud; and several nieces and nephews, whom she loved very much.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister, Elizabeth Palm; daughter-in-law, Lisa Stroud; and son-in-law, Richard Smith.

 Frances was the valedictorian of Odin High School and went on to earn a teaching degree from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. She dedicated over 14 years of service as a cook at Carterville Grade School, where her warmth and kindness touched many young lives.

A devoted member of the First Baptist Church, Frances was deeply involved in church activities, including the Home Extension, WMU, and Round Table. She faithfully volunteered with Vacation Bible School and Sunday School, sharing her love for Christ with generations of children. In addition, she and her husband, served their community through their work with Meals on Wheels.

Frances's life was a testament to her unwavering faith and deep love for her family. Her gentle spirit, generosity, and devotion will be remembered by all who knew her.

Her family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Parkway Manor and Hospice of Southern Illinois for the compassionate care they provided.

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