Frances May Neuhaus, age 82 of Hendersonville, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2026. She was born on May 26, 1944 in Chicago, Illinois to the late John and Beda Bates.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 57 years, Vernon T. Neuhaus; and her parents, Beda Bates, along with Oliver and Julia Johnson.

Fran is survived by her three adoring daughters, Deb (Scott) Anderson, Jennifer (Andrew) McCartney, and Cheryl DeFreest; her nine treasured grandchildren, Brittany (Chipper) Whittington, Luke (Lex) Anderson, Kayla Anderson, Ben McCartney, Jonathan McCartney, Anna McCartney, Kevin Davidson, Ryan Davidson, and Brendan Davidson; her great-grandbabies, Ryder and Selah Anderson; and many extended family and dear friends.

Fran will be remembered most for her unwavering love for God, her deep devotion to her family, and the joy and kindness she shared with everyone around her. She dearly loved her husband, Vern, their girls, and their families, and nothing brought her greater happiness than time spent with those she loved. Fran also had a special place in her heart for children. For many years, she served in the nursery and with AWANA, working with children from kindergarten through second grade.

Fran was truly one of the happiest, most positive, kind, and gracious people you could ever meet. Those who knew her might even describe her as “the happiest girl in the whole U.S.A.,” just like the Donna Fargo song that Vern loved to sing to her. Fran and Vern loved traveling together, exploring new places, and making special memories with their family along the way.

Above all, Fran’s life was centered on her faith in Jesus. She genuinely loved people and wanted others to experience the same hope and joy her faith brought to her life. Whether through a kind word, an encouraging smile, her service to children, or simply the way she lived each day, Fran sought to express the love of Jesus and share the hope of the Gospel with those around her. Her joyful spirit, gracious heart, and steadfast faith will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

Please join the family in celebrating Fran’s life on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the Hearthside Room at First Baptist Church Hendersonville. Fran will be laid to rest next to her husband in a private ceremony at Beech Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Neuhaus Family Christian Foundation or to your local church.

Arrangements Entrusted to: Sumner Funeral & Cremation Lakeside, Hendersonville (615) 822-4442 www.sumnerfuneral.com Proud to be family owned and operated.