Mother Frances Lee Canteen, 87, of Middlefield, CT, peacefully departed this life on Saturday, March 2, 2024, with her adoring family by her side. Born April 13, 1936, in Bishopville, SC, she was the daughter of the late Henry and Sadie Blair Hickman.
Frances was employed at various jobs over the years and retired from Wesleyan University and Pratt & Whitney Aircraft in Middletown.
Mother Canteen was a devoted, faithful member of The Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church for over 60 years where she lovingly contributed her time and talents to numerous ministries. She exemplified her unwavering faith through her tireless commitment to our weekly Sunday School, Bible Study, and Prayer ministry. She was a pillar of the congregation, serving on the Mother’s Board, lending her voice to the Shiloh Centennial Traveling Choir, and warmly welcoming worshippers as an Usher. Her caring nature extended beyond the pews, as she faithfully provided invaluable assistance to Bishop and Co-Pastor Cotten as a dedicated nurse and a member of the Pastors’ Aide ministry. Committed to spreading the message of faith far and wide, she served as a Missionary, bringing hope and compassion to communities near and far. Additionally, she was an integral member of the Sisters of the Kingdom ministry, embodying sisterhood and support for fellow believers. She was not content with simply attending to spiritual matters, but she also rolled up her sleeves to serve in the food pantry, ensuring that those in need received nourishment and care. Her legacy of selflessness and service will forever inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know her. Beyond her religious contributions, her outgoing spirit ensured she never met a stranger, welcoming everyone with open arms and a warm smile.
She leaves to cherish her memories her loving daughter, Kelly (Curvin) Council; Siblings, Ernest (Eileen) Hickman, Sr., Robert Odell (Alice) Hickman; Julie (James) Carraway; Bertha Gaskins; Addie Gibson; William Rosado; a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. Her loving son, Ronnie Canteen, predeceased her. She was also predeceased a sister, Mabel Hickman; and a brother, Henry Hickman, Jr.
A celebration of Ms. Canteen’s life and legacy will be held Friday, March 8, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, 346 Butternut St. Middletown. Viewing and visitation will be held at the church from 10:00-11:00 A.M. The burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Middletown, CT.
The Homegoing Celebration will be livestreamed by visiting the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church’s Facebook Live page or Zoom – 301-715-8592 passcode 464-159-1781
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Family: Trust in God for He will comfort and guide you through this difficult time. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4 True Vine Holiness Church, Pastor Nathaniel J. Fountain
Our prayers and condolences go out to the family. May she rest in the arms of the lord.
Beatrice and Charles Ford
Kelly, I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your mom. My deepest condolences sent your way. Praying for you and all who loved her! 🙏🏼🙏🏼💔😘🤗
A beautiful tribute for her beautiful soul Fran was a neighbor, with a welcoming smile that warms your heart. We feel truly blessed to have known her throughout these years. I had the pleasure of meeting her for the first time while I was visiting my parents years ago. My parents Enjoyed her company immensely. The years of simple conversation – meetings at the mailbox – the drop by visits – a quick phone call to say hello or well wishes when needed. The sharing of a meal filled with laughter. She was warm and kind always showing interest getting to know all about you And making you truly feel important. My son had the pleasure of meeting her this past year while he was up from Virginia visiting my mom and dad. He spoke highly of her long after he returned home. Enjoyed her conversation. He said mom she is REAL – a person just full of life. I know this “across the street family” feels very lucky to have known her and she will be missed. To her family and her friends – which she had so many – so so sorry for your loss. I do believe we will all meet her again one day and what a celebration that will be. Keeping you in our prayers during your time of loss and trust that God will bring you the comfort that you need at this time.
With sincere sympathy Connie, Edward Sadlowski. And daughter Barbara. ✨💫❤️
As I sit here with my thoughts of Mrs. Canteen. I can’t help but thank God for knowing such a beautiful angel. Kelly, you are in our prayers. We send our condolences that God will give you the strength. And I know He will because I’ve been there. Our family is here for when you need us. Keeping you in prayer. The Livingston family, Paul, Marisha and Sandra.
From the Cunningham family
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven
Ecclesiastes 3:1
Our condolences to the family 🕊️
My heart felt Condolences goes out to the family. Family Just hold to God’s Unchanging Hand He’ll never leave you my family and I are praying for your healing 🙌🏽💐♥️💙 love Mamie V Hyman and Family
Kelly, It was a pleasure to be her presence, kind and funny.
My Condolences, Praying for you and your family..
God Blessings,
My Condolences to the family. May God comfort you all during this time of sorrow. To be absent in the body is to be present with the Lord.
Kelly & Family,
May loving memories of your beautiful mother bring you peace. Her smile and stature was truly impactful. Thinking of you and wishing you strength and comfort. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.