Frances Woody Coulston

Frances Woody Coulston, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025, at her residence in Stanton, Tennessee. Born on November 23, 1930, in Hayti, Missouri, she lived a life defined by her unwavering dedication to family, community, and the joy of nurturing others.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Lea & Simmons Funeral Home in Brownsville, Tennessee, starting at 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM. Frances will be laid to rest at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Mason, Tennessee, with burial taking place at 3:00 PM.

For over 40 years, Frances worked as a cook for the Tipton County School System at Crestview Elementary. Her love for her work was evident in the way she greeted each child with a smile, always taking pleasure in seeing their joyful faces each day of the school year. Frances understood that food was not just nourishment; it was a way to connect, to comfort, and to express her love and care for the children. 

Family meant everything to Frances. She held an immense pride for her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, who filled her life with so much joy. Nothing delighted her more than when her family gathered together for special occasions and celebrations. Those moments of togetherness were the highlights of her life, as they epitomized the love and laughter that flowed through her home.

Frances had an extraordinary spirit of generosity; she loved people and was always looking out for anyone in need. Her kind heart and willingness to help others made a lasting impression on all who knew her. Whether it was through her work or in her personal life, she embodied the essence of compassion. In addition to her career and her devotion to family, Frances enjoyed painting, reading, cutting grass, and the thrill of finding a bargain at local yard sales. 

Frances was preceded in death by her beloved husband, W.L. Coulston; her son, Richard Coulston, Jr.; her father, William Woody; her mother, Myrtle Birmingham Woody; and her sisters, Melinda Ashlee Atkins, Ruby Will, and Bonnie G. Ross.

She leaves behind her loving family: sons, Carl G. Coulston (Jonna) from Missouri, Joe Coulston (Kathy) of Mason, Tennessee, and Steve Coulston (Sandra) of Keeling, Tennessee; daughter, Sandra Martin (Henry) of Stanton, Tennessee; and a multitude of cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. All of them will forever hold Frances close in their hearts, carrying forward her legacy of love and kindness.

Pallbearers for the service will be Paul Martin, Chris Ferguson, Nicholas Ferguson, Trevor Ferguson, Joey Coulston, and Travis Martin. All arrangements and services are under the direction of the Lea & Simmons Funeral Home in Brownsville, TN.