Francis Ruth (Smith) Cannon

Frances Ruth Smith was born on October 29, 1925, in Kaufman, Texas, to the late David Smith and Alabama (Hinton) Smith. She received her early education in Kaufman, graduating from Pyle High School. Committed to learning, Frances went on to earn a Bachelor's degree from Texas College and a Master's degree from Prairie View A&M University. She was a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Frances accepted Christ at an early age and remained a faithful and devoted Christian throughout her life. She was a member of Mt. Arie Baptist Church in Kaufman, and later worshipped at St. Mark Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Fort Worth, where she formed lasting bonds. In 2013, she relocated to Tomball, Texas.

In 1958, Frances married the love of her life, Raymond Cannon. From their union came two beloved daughters, Jane and Judy. Frances was an extraordinary mother who deeply cherished her children, and they adored her in return.

Frances dedicated her life to education, a career she loved deeply. After college, she began teaching in Kaufman I.S.D. and later joined Fort Worth I.S.D., where she left a lasting impact on countless students. 

Outside of her profession, Frances found joy in nature, especially tending to flowers and plants that attracted hummingbirds. Though she wasn’t fond of cooking, she loved baking, sewing, and sharing her mother’s treasured recipes. A passionate word game player, Frances spent many hours on her tablet and enjoyed watching football, baseball, and her favorite soap operas. She was a gifted storyteller with a sharp wit, known for her humorous tales and infectious laughter.

On Sunday, October 5, 2025, Frances entered into eternal rest at her home, surrounded by the love of her family. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Raymond Cannon, her brother A.D. Smith, and her sister Wilma Robin Smith.

Frances leaves behind a legacy of love, learning, and laughter. She is survived by her devoted daughters, Jane Baty (Larry) and Judy Cannon of Cypress, Texas; her cherished grandson, Nicholas Baty of San Diego, California; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, her St. Mark Church family, and many other relatives and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Frances will be deeply missed, but her light and legacy will continue to shine through the many lives she touched.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Francis Ruth (Smith) Cannon, please visit our floral store.