Frances Marie Powell

HER STORY

Frances Marie Price (Powell), Wife Mother and Friend, affectionately known as “Duchess” to family and friends was born on March 23, 1947 in Chicago, Illinois to Lee Ethel Williams (Tardy) and George Hurt.

On September 27, 2021, God called one of his most precious angels home.

She was preceded in death by her father, George Hurt; mother, Ethel Williams Tardy; stepfather, Jackson Tardy; daughter, Shelley Regina-Sandifer; four sisters, Mary Theresa, Toni, Freida, and Deborah; one brother, Kevin; one grandson, Derrick Elijah Woods Jr. and sister-in-law, Margarita.

Frances attended and graduated from Englewood High School in May of 1964. Shortly after, she traveled the world with her late husband, Herman Otis Sandifer Sr. whom was in the Air Force. During which time they welcomed their first child, Herman Otis Sandifer Jr. into the world. 
Further pursuing her academic journey, Frances enrolled in Olive Harvey College from 1972-1976. She later went on to continue her studies at the College of Saint Francis, alongside her daughter, Tracy Sandifer from 1986-1988, as well as numerous other academic pursuits. After graduating she would go on to work for the state of Illinois for 31 years.

Recently wed to the Love Of Her Life, Basil Ali Powell Sr. Frances was happy in her life, when her Journey on earth came to completion. She will continue to shine and live through the hearts of her husband, family, friends, and anyone else her light touched during her time on earth.

Known lovingly as “Mama Duch” her home was the place where the whole neighborhood loved to gather. As long as you didn’t walk in without speaking first, Mama Duch never turned anyone away, and she most likely had a coffee cup with your name on it. Whether child or adult, everyone was ready and excited to hear the knowledge and wisdom she so freely gave, and cherished their time in her warm embrace. 

 Frances leaves to cherish her special memories; her husband, Basil Powell Sr.; sister, Brenda; two brothers, Stomie (Ruby) and Paul (Jackie); one son, Herman Otis Sandifer Jr.; five daughters, Tracy Sandifer Sawyer (Jeffery), Tarina Sandifer, Tiggen Sandifer Small (Marius) Felicia Wiggins McDonald (Tony) Ayisha Powell (Marshawn); grandchildren Joshua, Ronald, Centoria, Bianca, Chanquis, Hakeem, Lolitha, Marcus, Quiniesha, Kyle, Delon, Da’Ja, Devon, Tana’Ja, Na’Jae, Nasir, Aihiry, Zolaya, Ayshawn; 26 great grandchildren and a host of family and friends.

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