Frances K., nee Knewitz, Axley, 78, of Naples, FL, formerly of New Athens, IL and Waterloo, IL, born January 5, 1940 in New Athens, IL, passed away on January 1, 2019 in Naples, FL.  Mrs. Axley worked as the guidance at New Athens Community School Dist. #60. for 25 years and had worked at the Waterloo High School district prior to that.  She was a member of the Mayflower Congregational United Church of Christ in Naples, FL.

She was preceded in death by her parents; Daniel G. and Marguerite, nee Boeker, Knewitz.

Fran is survived by her children; Ryan (Jennifer) Axley of Staunton, IL and Rachel (Mark) Kopp of Waterloo, IL, 5 grandchildren; Steven and Bailey Kopp, Preston Axley, Mike Mieure and Hope Henrion, 1 sister; Janet Knewitz of New Athens, IL, 2 brothers; Dan Knewitz of Florissant, MO and Charlie Knewitz of New Athens, IL.

Memorials may be made to the family.

Visitation: Friends may call from 3 to 8 p.m. on Friday, February 1, 2019 and also from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 2, 2019 at St. John United Church of Christ in New Athens, IL

Funeral:  Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 2, 2019 at St. John United Church of Christ in New Athens, IL with Rev. Dr. Robert Koch and Rev. Ivan Horn officiating.

Heil-Schuessler Funeral Home in New Athens, IL is in charge of arrangements.

1. Jean Beggs says:

   02/01/2019 at 1:05 pm

   So sad! Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends, especially to the many friends that had life long memories from the class of ‘72.
   Events as this force us to reflect and appreciate life. This may get easier as time passes, but we will never forget.

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2. Anita Roddy says:

   02/01/2019 at 6:21 am

   She was a wonderful woman , I was a student and her office aid , the afternoons in her office were some of my fondest school memories , God definately gained a very special angel . Love you Fran R.I.P

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3. Debbie Bauer says:

   01/19/2019 at 8:12 am

   She touched my heard and my life. I have many fond memories.
   My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

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4. Pamela Clark says:

   01/18/2019 at 8:46 pm

   A tragedy. Fran will be missed. Will be thinking and praying for strength for her family.

   Reply