Frances Davis Sipe, a lifelong resident of Elkton, Virginia, passed away at home surrounded by her loving family on her 85th birthday, November 27, 2024. She was the daughter of the late Bessie Marie Davis.

On August 28, 2011, she was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 53 years, Jesse Eugene Sipe.

Frances was a 1958 graduate of Elkton High School. She previously enjoyed taking classes in flower design and arrangement at BRCC. She was a supervisor and EMT at Merck and retired in 1994 after nearly 20 years of service.

She was also preceded in death by her brother, Ronald Lee Davis; two aunts who were as close as sisters, Vada Eaton and Vivian Seal as well as many friends, and members of the extended Davis and Sipe family.

Frances loved gardening, crocheting, beach-combing for shells, traveling abroad, but mostly, she enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her great-grandson, James who called her GiGi; she was his person and he was hers.

Frances leaves behind two daughters, Brenda Barb and husband, Russ of McGaheysville, Sharon Sipe of Elkton; a son, Steve Sipe of Massanutten; a brother, Donnie Davis and wife, Carolyn, Mills Gap, W.Va.; four grandchildren, Tim Barb and wife, Bethany, Karyn Posey and partner, Steven Barker, Andrew Sipe, Hannah Sipe and partner, Xander Silva; one great-grandchild, James Barb; and nephew, David Davis; and special members of her late husband’s family, her dear friends, Peggy Hedrick and Mary Jo Oddo Halstead.

A private graveside service was held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in McGaheysville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sentara Hospice Services, 871 M.L.K. Jr Way, Suite 203, Harrisonburg, VA 22801 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation to Sentara’s hospice team of Jillian, Jessica, Angie, and Cindy; and also to neighbor and dear friend, Pastor Jim Kite for his unwavering support and spiritual care of both our mother and father over the years.