Mildred "Frances" Sheffield

Mildred Frances Sheffield was the firstborn to Ervin and Sarah Elizabeth “Lizzie” Dunn on October 23, 1933, in Star, NC. She peacefully left for her heavenly home on Saturday, November 2, 2024, surrounded by family and friends. 

Frances spent her life in Star, where she lovingly raised her 3 children, Johnny, Debbie, and Beth with her devoted husband, Bill. She worked as a seamstress at Montgomery Hosiery before retiring. After the loss of her son Johnny, Frances and Bill dedicated themselves to raising Johnny’s two sons to adulthood. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Bill, brothers Edward, James, and Clyde and grandson Noah. Frances is survived by her adoring daughters Debra “Debbie” Lynthacum (Paul) of Candor and Beth Roy (Billy) of Whiteville, 6 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and her sister Esther Auman of Biscoe. 

An avid reader, flower gardener, cook, and friend, Frances will be greatly missed by those she leaves behind. She loved sharing books, and her favorite flowers were azaleas and irises. She enjoyed Sunday afternoon hunts for arrow heads, old bottles, and pottery. Her girls fondly remember her chocolate gravy and biscuits. Baking cakes and singing old hymns at New Hope Baptist Church where she was a member were among her joys. Frances loved traveling to the beach with Ocracoke Island holding a special place in her heart. She loved searching for shells and awaiting the fresh catch Bill would bring in. A dedicated shopper, she enjoyed spending time with Debbie on their scheduled Friday shopping days. Visits to Beth often included walks on the beach and various adventures. 

Her grandchildren will forever miss her Christmas fudge and the boundless love she shared. Most importantly, she will be remembered by all for a life well lived. 

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the staff at Autumn Care of Biscoe for the devoted care they provided to her over the course of her illness. A special thanks as well to the team from FirstHealth Hospice for the supportive care they provided in the last week of her life. 

A graveside service officiated by Preacher Gene Davis will be held on Tuesday, November 5th at 2:00 pm at the old cemetery at New Hope Baptist Church in Star. 

Online condolences may be left at www.phillipsfh.com.

The Sheffield family is being served by Phillips Funeral Home in Star.