Frances Festavan

Frances Jeanette Festavan, 86, of Pelham, AL, passed away on July 19, 2020. Frances was born on November 3, 1933 to Susie and Alton Dumas in Smackover, Arkansas. After marrying her sweetheart at the age of 16, they began their life that took them from Smackover, to Benton, IL, to Shelbyville, KY and finally to Alabaster, AL. Each move brought lifelong friendships that Mom truly cherished. She was a beloved mother/grandmother who will be greatly missed. In her prime she was an amazing cook, enjoying preparing each family member’s favorites! Her pancakes were world famous to her grandchildren! Frances loved sports, especially Auburn Football, the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bulls. (She may have been Michael Jordan’s biggest fan.) She was her kids biggest fan, spending countless hours at gyms, football and baseball fields, track meets, dance recitals and twirling contests.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Alton and Susie Dumas, her loving husband of 58 years, Bob Festavan; brothers, Boyt Dumas and Larry Dumas, his wife, Edie, and son-in-law, Billy Snow.

Frances leaves behind to cherish her memory her daughters, Debbie Snow, Tammy WIlliams (Randall), and Marnie LeSueur (Ken); son, Randy Festavan (Deidre), and sister, Allie Fulkerson. Frances was both Nana and MawMaw to her 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Frances and Bob were active members at Helena Methodist before his passing and Francis had attended Church of the Highlands in these latter years.

Due to the times in which we live, she will be honored with a family only service. Her grandson, Luke, will have the honor of leading this tribute to a life well lived.