Mary Frances Hooper Brandon, a native of Rutherford County, was born Nov. 1, 1909 in Murfreesboro and died at her home in Smyrna on Sept. 25, 2011 at the age of 101 and 11 months.

She was preceded in death by her parents, “Fanny” and Ed Hooper, her brothers: Edwin, John and Earnest and her husband M.B. Brandon who served as the superintendent of Rutherford County schools for many years. She is survived by her daughter: Jane (Dorris E. “Jack”) Curtis of Beech Grove, Tenn., and Judy (Olan J. “Zeke”) Clemens of Smyrna; five grandchildren: Jackie C. (Bob) Morton of Beech Grove, Jay B. Curtis of Pelham, Tenn., Jenann C. (Mark) Lay of Cleveland, Tenn., Olan J. “Buster” (Kim) Clemens of Memphis and Charles B. “Chuck” (Katie) Clemens of Murfreesboro; 10 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and seven nieces and nephews.

She graduated from Central High School and received her MS degree from MTSU. She touched the lives of the many students whom she taught during the more than 40 years with the Rutherford County Board of Education teaching both elementary and high school students as well as directing the Title I Program for improving reading in Rutherford County Schools.

Mary Frances’ life was a life of service to others and was based on her favorite song since childhood, “Others.” She became a member of the First Presbyterian Church in 1920. She served her church through Women of the Church and was honored by a Life Membership in 1987. In addition, she served her church at different time as chief cook, making bread for Newcomers, and helping mail the monthly newsletters. She also was a volunteer driver for “Meals on Wheels” and Churchwomen United’s Transportation Projects.

Visitation with Mary Frances’ family will be from noon until 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011 at First Presbyterian Church. The funeral will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, 2011 at the First Presbyterian Church with burial following at Roselawn Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church or the charity of your choice. Her great grandsons will be serving as pallbearers. 

Arrangements are being handled by Jennings and Ayers Funeral Home; 820 South Church St. Murfreesboro, TN 37130 615-893-2422. Please leave condolences at www.jenningsandayers.com.