Frances Laverne (Bure) Smothers

On Tuesday, November 19, 2024 Frances Laverne Bure Smothers, transitioned from this earthly life to Eternal Peace with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; surrounded by loved ones.

Frances, age 95, AKA “P” was born October 5,1929 to the late Peter and Ada Todd Cooper in Shaw, Mississippi. Frances graduated in 1948 from Mount Bayou an All Black School in Shaw, Mississippi. 

After graduating she moved to Fort Wayne, IN, in 1950 and once established she joined Pilgrim Baptist Church under the leadership of the late John Dixie & Sam Shade, Jr. Frances was a faithful member of the Chancellor Choir.

Frances was an officer in the Fort Wayne Chapter of Eastern Star Daughters of ISIS from 1970-until her health failed.

Frances married the late George W. Smothers in the early 1970’s. Together 

they owned a corner store at Buchanan and Hanna known as Mr. Georges Store.

Frances has 3 special cousins that she grew up with as sisters; Mamie Johnson, Retha White, and Beatrice Stovall all of Detroit, Mi. 

Frances leaves to Cherish her memory, 2 sons: Milburn Bure and Minister Henry (Beverly) White, 

a loving and devoted niece, Janice Richardson, 5 grandchildren, 

her very special granddaughter, Danielle Bates, and grandson, Shawn Felix, Santario Simpson, and Shantelle Simpson all of Fort Wayne, IN., and James Lacey of San Diego, CA. 14 great-grandchildren, 8 great-great grandchildren.

And lifelong friend Mrs. Frances Milan.

Frances was preceded in death by her brother, Oliver Bure, son, Omar Shabazz, daughter, Millicent Wilson, grandson, Jason Berry, and granddaughter Jasmine Crosby.

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