Frances Jane Sample, devoted housewife, homemaker

Frances Jane Sample was called home to be with the Lord Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023.   

Frances Purnell, daughter of the late Moses and Margie Purnell, was born June 29, 1937, in Berlin, Md.   

Frances attended Worcester School and lived a large portion of her early life in Maryland. She was a domestic worker and hairdresser. She was married to her husband, Charles Thomas Sample, for 52 years. She enjoyed riding the motorcycle with her beloved Charlie.   

Frances was a devoted housewife and homemaker. She enjoyed cooking, and was well known for her famous fried chicken. She loved being surrounded by her family and friends, and hosted many cookouts to bring everyone together. She loved to listen to the Gaither Brothers and Praise the Lord. She was a mighty woman with a huge heart and a silent strength about her.   

Frances was preceded in death by her parents, Moses and Margie Purnell; her husband, Charles Sample; her son, Junior Sample; and nine of her siblings. 

She will be lovingly remembered by her two daughters, Margot Tingle Wise (Robert) and Linda Collins; one son, James Purnell (George Anna); one brother, Robert Purnell; one sister, Kathleen Purnell; one sister-in-law, Naomi Purnell Westcott; one aunt, Elizabeth Mumford; five grandchildren, Michael Purnell, Jonathan Purnell, Shana Nichols (Anthony), Jakayla Sample and Jaryn Sample; six great-grandchildren, Whitley Purnell, Levin Purnell, Lexie Taino, Tiara Nichols, Christian Nichols and Kyle Nichols; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. She will be missed dearly. 

A funeral service will be held at noon, Thursday, Nov. 9, at Trinity Holiness Church, 34640 Delaware Ave., Frankford, where friends may visit from 11 a.m. to noon. Interment will follow at Zoar Golden Acres in Bishopville, Md.

Visit Frances’ Life Memorial webpage and sign her online guestbook at watsonfh.com.