Frances Ann Carter Smith, 73, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, peacefully entered into the presence of the Lord on January 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and dear friends. Born on July 25, 1951, she was the cherished daughter of Robert M. Carter and Billie M. Elliott Carter, and the third of five children raised in Ulysses, Kansas.

A dedicated public servant, Frances proudly served her country in the U.S. Army’s Women’s Army Corps from 1972 to 1979. Following her military service, she continued her commitment to public service in Civil Service, ultimately retiring from the U.S. Postal Service in 2007. Frances was a diligent lifelong learner, earning her Bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs in 1990, showcasing her passion for education. Throughout her life, Frances considered herself a Protestant in faith, drawing strength and comfort from her beliefs.

Frances is survived by her three beloved children: daughter Katie Smith Bittler and her husband Sean Cummings, and sons Joshua and Axel of Statham, Georgia; son George Smith and his fiancée Emily, along with their children Abram, Arden, and Asa of Colorado Springs; and son Matthew Smith, also of Colorado Springs. She is also lovingly remembered by her longtime and devoted partner, Terry Cloud; sisters Gayla J. Lund and Stacy L. Taylor; brother Lonnie B. Carter; and brother of choice, Jack Owens. Frances leaves behind her stepchildren, Kim (Smith) Waiters, Keith Smith, and Kevin Smith, as well as their beautiful families.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Smith Jr.; her parents Robert M. Carter and Billie M. Elliott Carter; brother Robert B. Carter; son-in-law Dennis Bittler; and grandson Harold Gary.

Family was the cornerstone of Frances’ life. She cherished the relationships she cultivated with her children and grandchildren, finding profound joy in nurturing those connections. A published author, Frances shared her life experiences through two memoirs, offering insight into her childhood and early adulthood. An ardent animal lover, she dedicated her time and resources to helping abandoned and shelter cats and dogs. Frances delighted in preparing delicious home-cooked meals, gardening, exploring historical sites, listening to the Moody Blues, and enjoying action movies.

A funeral service will take place in Colorado Springs on July 24, 2025, at 10 a.m., followed by a graveside service at Ulysses Cemetery in Ulysses, Kansas on July 25, 2025, at 10 a.m. with a reception luncheon to be held immediately following at New Beginnings Church, 837 N. Baughman in Ulysses. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to her GoFundMe campaign (https://gofund.me/d0875631) to assist the family with final expenses. Local arrangements are in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, KS 67880. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.

Frances made an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her, embodying love, strength, and wisdom. Her legacy of kindness and compassion will be profoundly missed, truly making the world a better place.