Mrs. Frances W. York Obituary in Orangeburg at Simmons Funeral Home

Obituary For Mrs. Frances W. York

Mrs. Frances Walker York, 78, of Orangeburg, passed away on Sunday, May 10, 2020. Due to COVID-19, the family will hold a private funeral service. A public viewing will be held Friday, May 15 from 3-7 p.m. at Simmons Funeral Home Chapel, 2868 Columbia Road, Orangeburg, South Carolina 29118.

Frances was born July 25, 1941 in Detroit, Michigan, a daughter of Roscoe Walker and Gladys Parker. She was raised in Anderson County, South Carolina and graduated from Riverside High School in Pendleton. She furthered her education at South Carolina State University (then South Carolina State College), where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education (Class of 1964) and later a Master of Education degree in special education. She married Willis Edward York on June 22, 1968 and they celebrated the birth of their daughter, Karen Elizabeth, on April 5, 1969.

She began her teaching career in the Spartanburg County schools and she taught for a year at Greenview Elementary School in Columbia, but she spent most of her career in public education in Orangeburg School District Five. She was one of those “old school” educators who inspired and demanded excellence from her students. Frances taught at the elementary level, including at Whittaker Elementary School, and she went on to serve as the curriculum specialist at Rivelon Elementary School and as curriculum coordinator for the district. Before she retired in 1999, she served for a year as principal at W.J. Clark Middle School. After her retirement, she taught at Claflin University, helping to train the next generation of educators. She also served as a consultant for the South Carolina Department of Education and worked with schools on strategies to increase student achievement.

Her many professional affiliations included the National Education Association (NEA), the South Carolina Education Association (SCEA), the International Reading Association (IRA), the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) and Phi Delta Kappa. She also was a member of New Mount Zion Baptist Church in Orangeburg and a Golden Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

Frances was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Daisy, Joanne, Richard and Ronald; and her husband, Willis. Along with her daughter, Karen, she is survived by several cousins in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia and beyond, including special cousins, Roscoe Walker Riley, Jr., Bowen McDowell Wakefield, III (Beverly) and Milton Warren Miller, II; her former student at Claflin University and “adopted son,” Mark Joseph; and many friends, including special close friends Elaine Scipio Arledge, Gladys Johnson, Amelia Broughton, Debra Norman, Sheneice Smith and Elder William E. Smith.

Due to COVID-19, visits to the home are restricted, but the family will receive phone calls at (803) 536-2679. Condolences may be sent to her daughter, Karen York, at 19 East Lake Court, Columbia, South Carolina 29209.

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Karen, just reading of your mother's graduation to heaven. So many visits to your home, so many conversations about life & education. She was a highly effective educator and administrator, a blessing to all she touched and served. Her humor and perspective on life was refreshing. May you treasure the memories. Peace & blessings to you. Carolyn Woodbury

Our deepest sympathy and condolences to her family and friends. A professor can teach what a parent can't never teach, what has been taught shall never be forgotten because it's passed on in each generation her grace lives in each one of us, amen

Karen your mother's kindness was contagious and her memory will live on forever. My deepest condolences to you during this time. Your mother was an amazing woman and she will truly be missed. From Harry and Sabrina Riley. Kayla, Harry and Brianna said they will miss her dearly.

My condolence to the family. I met Mrs. York at Claflin University and she was a lovely lady with a beautiful heart and spirit. Prayers for the family, she will be missed......Shirley Sease

Oh Karen, my deepest sympathy to you. She was the best "boss lady" ever! I still remember her laughter when she said to me in the office one day "Now Dot, you have been walking around here with lipstick on one lip, disgraceful". We fell out laughing. Loved her. Dorothy Ham

Condolences to the York family in the loss of Mrs. Frances York, a true "trooper" in the Orangeburg community for years. She touched so many lives and I always admired her zeal and warm personality. Almost every time I encountered her, no matter the occasion, we talked SC State University, the happenings in the community and, occasionally, politics. I hope your fond memories of her will help you through this sad time. Bill Hamilton

Condolences to the York family in the loss of Mrs. Frances York, a true "trooper" in the Orangeburg community for years. She touched so many lives and I always admired her zeal and warm personality. Almost every time I encountered her, no matter the occasion, we talked SC State University, the happenings in the community and, occasionally, politics. I hope your fond memories of her will help you through this sad time

I had the great fortune to work at Clark Middle School during the year that Frances served as our administrator. Her wonderful sense of humor, her professionalism and her objectivity in dealing with parents, students and teachers were just a few of her traits that I greatly admired . She was one of the last great educators ! May your wonderful memories of your mother sustain you in the dark days to come. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Courtney Daniels

Karen, Words cannot mend a heartache. Please know that so many stand by you in thought and prayer. May you find strength in the love and embrace of family and friends during this time. My deepest sympathy. Santana Sanguiliano

My dear friend Karen, words cannot express how saddened I am to hear about Aunt Frances. We spent so much time at your home growing up I just always thought we would have them always. I am praying for you always and forever. Love you sis.

I was truly saddened to hear of your passing. I pray that your daughter Karen finds peace in the days ahead. Thank you for everything! You will be missed!
With deepest sympathy, Desiree Lewis

Beloved Karen and Family: We bear your burden of loss as Frances has fallen asleep. We thank God for sending The Holy Spirit to comfort and strengthen you now and the days ahead. We forever will remember Mrs. York for her wonder spirit of joy and laughter, for she always cheered and refreshed our hearts. This we shall savor forever. May God Bless You! The Cummings Family, Blythewood and Columbia