Frances Lucille Bivens

Frances Lucille Bivens, age 98, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, October 17, 2025. A native of Blount County, Frances was a 1945 graduate of Everett High School, where she was a cheerleader. She went on to graduate from Knoxville Business College in 1947. After working at Beauman and Beauman Architects, she was employed by the University of Tennessee College of Agriculture for 31 years. Frances was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Maryville, where she taught Sunday School and volunteered at the Family Life Center, the Baptist Center, and the Homebound Ministry. She was an avid fan of UT football and basketball, especially the Lady Vols. On Tuesday, October 14th, she was honored as the "Ultimate Vol for Life" at Brookdale Browns Creek, where a tailgate party with UT mascot Smokey was held for her and the other residents. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter Bee Bivens, Sr., and Bertha Culveyhouse Bivens; her brothers, Walter Bee Bivens, Jr., Ullin L. Bivens, and his wife Naomi. She is survived by cousins Linda Rogers, Larry Prater, Pat Hall, Frances Hodge, Martha Abbott, David Coulter, Mary Claire Brewer, Mary Rose Clark, a host of other cousins who shared in her joyful spirit, and dear friends David and Sandy Price. Frances touched the lives of everyone who had the honor of knowing her. Her selflessness, warmth, and generous spirit will be remembered forever. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion that lives on in all of us. Frances would like to thank Mary Rose Clark for all she did for her while she was at home. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of Brookdale Browns Creek and to Caris Hospice caregivers for their compassionate care, comfort, and kindness during Frances's final days. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Grandview Mausoleum Chapel with a burial to follow. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Maryville. Condolences may be shared through Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.