Frances Marie Whitaker

Frances Marie Whitaker, 68, passed away on Sunday, June 4, 2023, at Open Arms Hospice House. She was born on March 26, 1955, in sunny San Diego, California, to James William Sparks and Margaret Lucile Cowan.

Frances graduated Class of '73 at Glen Alpine High and studied Business at Troy University. She also served in the United States Army until 1977.

Frances was the one and only "Bakery Queen" at Walmart in Travelers Rest from November 6, 2010, until her passing. Customers and co-workers alike loved her smile, charisma and the fact that she always had the "411".

Frances is survived by her husband, Robert "Rick" Whitaker, her daughters Amanda Wright, Robin Cochrane (Raymond), Brittany Whitaker, and Jennifer Amaral (Richard), her grandsons Trevor Ford and Wylder Cochrane, and her granddaughters Maggie Wright, Emma Wright, and Abby Amaral. She is also survived by her sister, Margaret Marriott (Danny) of Morganton, and her brother, James "Bob" Sparks of Travelers Rest.

Frances was preceded in death by her father, James William Sparks, her mother, Margaret Lucille Cowan, and her sister, Sheilla R. Sparks. She is now reunited with her loved and watching over us.

Frances loved spoiling her grandbabies for a "Guinea Day". Her family and friends will remember her as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She was truly the heart and soul of our family.

A memorial service for Frances will be held Thursday, June 8, 2023 from 1:00 PM at Mackey Funerals and Cremations at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 1 Pine knoll Drive, Greenville, SC 29609.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mackeywoodlawn.com for the Whitaker family.