Frances Marie Stephens Browder, 92, peacefully stepped into the arms of Jesus on October 24, 2024, in Brandon, Florida, surrounded by her loving family. After suffering a debilitating stroke on March 10, which left her silent and immobile, Frances’s unwavering spirit found rest in the Lord.
Born and raised in Tampa, Frances was the daughter of the late Johnny David Stephens and Myrtle Iva Graves Stephens. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, friend, and neighbor, she was known for her kindness and grace, embodying the essence of a true Southern lady with the gift of hospitality. Frances was famous for her delightful Browder soup and the lavish Sunday dinners she prepared for her family and friends. Her hobbies included gardening, quilting, crocheting, and staying active with healthy cooking and exercising at the MAC gym. However, her greatest joy came from her relationships with people, especially her husband of 68 years, Al Browder.
In addition to her husband, Frances is survived by her three children, Debra Perkins, Susan Martin (Jon), and Mark Browder (Shelly); her seven grandchildren, Scott Perkins, Aimee Rolfsen (Alex), Timothy Martin (Emily), Allison Anger (Bryan), Stephen Martin (Cassidy), Blake Browder, and Holly Browder; and her six great-grandchildren, Jackson, James, Isla, John Scott, Eleanor, and Emma. She poured her love into her family, nurturing and caring for them with a passion that touched all who knew her.
A lifelong servant, Frances dedicated herself to helping others, particularly children, through various ministries at her church, directing a daycare, and caring for her many nieces and nephews. Her happiest moments were spent giving to others, reflecting her selfless heart.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Brandon, with the family receiving friends one hour prior to services.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to One More Child, P.O. Box 8190, Lakeland, FL 33802, (Give Now - One More Child) or the Children’s Ministry at First Baptist Church Brandon, 216 N. Parsons Avenue, Brandon, FL. (Give to First Baptist Brandon).
Frances will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know her.
Previous Events
Visitation
30
Oct
216 North Parsons Avenue
Brandon, FL 33510
Celebration of Life Service
30
Oct
216 North Parsons Avenue
Brandon, FL 33510
