Frances Ann Mize Brashears, 73, of Knoxville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2024. Born on March 7, 1951, in Bell County, Kentucky, Frances was the daughter of Tip Marcus Mize and Flossie Mae Brooks, both of whom preceded her in death.

Frances was a trailblazer in her profession becoming the first female to achieve high-ranking status as a Lieutenant Guard and EMT at Y-12 Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where she dedicated many years of service until her retirement. She was a lifelong learner, having earned her Certified Nurse Assistant license through Job Corps and later an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing from Walter State Community College. Frances also pursued her love of theology, earning a certification that deepened her faith and understanding.

She was a devoted wife to the late Arnold Lee Brashears, Jr. Her siblings, Juanita Mize, Willard (Bus) Coffee, James Mize, Charlie Mize, Earnest Mize, and Glenda Sue Hudson, as well as her great-grandson, Kash Walton, also preceded her in death. Frances leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and perseverance. She is survived by her sister, Darlene Cash; children, Marcella (Kacy) Rodgers, Georgette Phillips, Fadra (Cory) Bryson, and John Walton, Jr.; grandchildren—Kacy (Alexandria) Rodgers II, Kevon Layne, Tevin Layne, K’Andre (Maria) Walton, Jenaya (Grace) Franklin, Malaya Nolan, Imani Brian, and Brailynn Bryson; great-grandchildren, Karsyn Walton, Karmyn Walton, Aminah Layne, Zahra Layne, Aaryon Tate, Aadon Tate, and Kali Rodgers, each of whom she adored deeply.

Her memberships in the National Rifle Association (NRA) and Friends of Israel reflected her strong beliefs and values. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff of Unity Mortuary. www.unitymortuary1979.com