Frances Lancaster
Date of notice: June 15, 2026
Frances Barham Lancaster Taylor, 91, of West Point, Mississippi, passed away at her home on June 13, 2026.
Frances was preceded in death by her husbands, Malcolm Fred Lancaster and Dan Taylor; her daughter, Pamela Lancaster; her granddaughter, Tammy Cummings; and her brothers, Frank Barham and Eldon Barham, and stepson-in-law, Gary Stovall.
She is survived by her daughter, Vicki Hartman; her grandson, Alan Hartman; her great-grandson, Bradley Cummings; her brother, Paul Barham; stepdaughter, Vicki Stovall; stepson, Danny (Billie) Taylor; step-granddaughter Taylor (Tim) Massey; step-grandsons, Darby Stovall, Beau (Tanya) Taylor, Kenneth Taylor, Matt (McKayla) Taylor; her dear friend, Robert Smith; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Born on November 18, 1934, in Lowndes County, Mississippi, Frances was the daughter of the late Robert Doy and Ruby Grace Adair Barham. Following her graduation from S.D. Lee High School in Columbus, MS, in 1952, Frances embarked on a remarkable 73-year career in accounting and entrepreneurship. In addition to operating Lancaster Income Tax, she successfully owned and managed several local businesses over the years, including Fran’s Kitchen and Taylor Made Nuts. Family and friends frequently encouraged her to retire and spend more time doing the things she loved. Apparently, what she loved most was working. Her strong work ethic, determination, and independent spirit remained with her throughout her life.
A lifelong member of the Church of Christ, Frances and her late husband, Dan, were devoted supporters of the Church of Christ Disaster Relief Services. Through this ministry, they collected, donated, and delivered vital supplies to communities affected by natural disasters across the Southeast. Their generosity and compassion brought comfort and hope to countless individuals during times of great need.
Frances was also an avid traveler whose adventurous spirit carried her throughout North America. She had a passion for BMW motorcycles, Honda Gold Wings, and Class A motorhomes, embracing every opportunity to explore the open road. Among her favorite adventures were salmon fishing trips in Alaska and scenic motorcycle tours across the United States and Canada.
Services are entrusted to Memorial Funeral Home of Columbus. Visitation is Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 10 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. A private family interment will follow at Memorial Gardens, where her earthly travels end and she gains her eternal gold wings.
Serving as pallbearers are Brian Barham, Terry Barham, Dawn Barham, Wendy Vickers, Owen Vickers, and Belton Harpole.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a favorite charity.
