Mrs. Frances Rampey Gilreath

She was a native and lifelong resident of Piedmont and the first of five daughters born to the late Walker F. and Ellen Smith Rampey.

Frances graduated from Piedmont High School in 1938 and became the winner of the Miss Piedmont Contest, formerly known as the local Miss America Contest in 1939.

She spent her working career in textiles, retiring as a technician in the Quality Control Department from J.P. Stevens & Co. with 38 years of service. She was a lifelong member of Piedmont United Methodist Church where she served on the Administrative Board and Council on Ministries as well as serving as a teacher of the Philetha Sunday School Class for 25 years. Frances was a former member of the Piedmont Chapter # 108, Order of the Eastern Star, volunteer carrier with Meals on Wheels and remembered as a true Southern Lady always ready to lend a helping hand. Most importantly was her love and devotion shown to her family.

She is survived by her daughter, Scarlette G. Owens of Piedmont; grandson, Furman Lee Owens and fiancée Tonya Morris; and her great-grandson, Evan Adams Owens all of Greenville.

Mrs. Gilreath is at The Mackey Mortuary where the family will receive friends Monday afternoon from 2:00 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. with funeral services to follow at 3:00 p.m. at the mortuary. The Reverend Matt Greer will officiate. The committal service will be private.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Piedmont United Methodist Church, 31 Main Street, Piedmont, SC 29673.

The Mackey Mortuary.

Published in The Greenville News on Oct. 4, 2015