Francis Ellen Chenoweth

Francis Ellen Chenoweth, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away on Saturday, September 16, 2023, in Temple, Texas. Born on July 3, 1935, in Alvarado, Texas, Francis lived a life filled with love and cherished memories. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Growing up in Greenville, Texas, Francis graduated from Temple High School in 1953 and attended Temple Junior College before furthering her education at Nixon-Clay Business College in Austin. She developed strong skills and a profound work ethic that would later shape her successful career. Francis worked in the office for Dyers Department Store and then went on to work for American National Insurance Company. However, it was her time at Walmart that left an indelible mark on her life. After dedicating 22 years of service to Walmart as a sales associate and door greeter, Francis retired with fond memories and countless friendships.

Outside of her professional achievements, Francis was an active member of First Baptist Church in Temple since 1950. Her faith was an integral part of her life. For three years, she also served as a pre-school teacher at the church—a role that brought her immense joy and fulfillment.

Throughout her life journey, Francis displayed incredible strength and resilience as a cancer survivor. She faced adversity head-on with unwavering courage and determination. Her battle with cancer only served to inspire those around her and demonstrate the depth of her character.

Francis possessed many hobbies and interests that enriched her life. She had fond memories of being a Rainbow Girl and Girl Scout during her younger years. Crafting was another passion that filled her days with creativity and joy. She poured love into everything she made and enjoyed sharing her talents with friends and family.

Francis will forever live on in the hearts of her surviving family members: son, Jonnie Lee Saltsman Jr. (Diane); daughter, Nita Carol Bulls (Eddie); grandchildren, Angela Bulls (Wagner), Justin Bulls (Laura), Rebecca Soltys (Eddie), Jennifer Guerriero (Josh), Michael Symsick (Crystal), and Christopher Saltsman (Jaime); and great grandchildren, Austin Flading (Briana), Blake Bulls, Colten Bulls, Karley Bulls, Leksy Soltys, M.J. Symsick, Lyndsey Symsick, Zoey Saltsman, Olivia Guerriero, Madison Vela, Zoe Guerriero, Max Guerriero, and Jaelynn Guerriero. Each member of her family held a special place in her heart and brought immeasurable joy to her life.

Francis was preceded in death by her parents, Marvin Alton Pillow and Thelma Mae (Hensarling) Pillow; her first husband, Jonnie Lee Saltsman; her second husband, Calvin Curtis Chenoweth; her sister, Loretta Jerline McGonagle; her stepson, Curt Chenoweth; and her daughter, Debra Marie Saltsman. Although she may no longer be with us in the physical sense, the memories she created will forever be cherished by her loved ones.

To honor and celebrate the beautiful life of Francis Ellen Chenoweth, a visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 20th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Temple. Her funeral service will take place on Thursday, September 21st at 12:00 PM (Noon) at First Baptist Church of Temple.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society or any charity of your choice.

The family would like to also express a special thank you to the nurses and staff of Amedisys Hospice and Sodalis Assisted Living Center for their compassion and support through this difficult time.

Francis Ellen Chenoweth will forever remain etched in our hearts as a beacon of love, compassion, and strength. Her legacy will continue to inspire all those who were privileged to have known her.