Frances “Francie” Irene Hovatter, 92, a resident of Parsons, passed from this life on Monday, October 6, 2025, at Cortland Acres Nursing Home. She had been in declining health, but death was unexpected.
Francie was born Friday, December 30, 1932, in Philippi, a daughter of the late Jacob Dumire Close and Mary “Beatrice” Parsons Close. On March 24, 1956, in Oakland, MD, she married John “Johnny” Walter Hovatter, who preceded her in death on June 30, 2022. They had celebrated 66 years of marriage.
Left to cherish Francie’s memory are two sons, Ona Jacob (OJ) Hovatter and Jon Curtis Hovatter and wife, Deborah, of Parsons, three grandchildren Sherry Hovatter, Justin Hovatter and fiancé, Hannah of Bozeman, MT, and Matraca Gunnoe and husband, Andrew, of Bruceton Mills, and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding Francie in death besides her parents and husband, was a daughter-in-law, Joyce Hovatter, seven siblings, John Close, Maxine Close Hauser, Toots Close, Jack Close, Denver Close, Madeline Close Hauser and Joseph Close. Francie was the last surviving member of her immediate family.
Francie was a graduate of Parsons High School and had been employed as a magistrate assistant and bank teller. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Parsons. Francie was an avid reader and enjoyed auctions and yard sales. She loved her family very much and loved spending time with them.
The family would like to acknowledge the excellent care Francie received from the staff of Cortland Acres Nursing Home.
Francie’s request for cremation will be honored. A graveside service will be held for Frances and Johnny at Parsons City Cemetery at a date to be announced later. The Hostetler Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements for Frances “Francie” Irene Hovatter. Send online condolences to the family at www.hostetlerfuneralhome.com.
