Frances "Fran" Nixon Warlick

Frances "Fran" Nixon Warlick, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Monday, January 20, 2025, surrounded by love and laughter. Born in South Carolina, Fran brought her fierce spirit and charm to Knoxville in 1963, where she lived a life full of purpose, humor, and unforgettable memories. Fran was preceded in death by her husband, William Lee Warlick; her daughter, Marion Nixon Ferrill; her mother, Dona Long; her father, Hance Nixon; and her stepfather, Hoke Long. She is survived by her son, William Lee Warlick (Jody); her daughter, Holly Warlick (Jackie); her brother, Steve Long (Vickie); and her sisters, Ann Webb (Douglas) and Jan Ryan (Mike). Fran was the proud grandmother of five and the great-grandmother of four, as well as a beloved aunt to numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Fran worked in the hotel business in Knoxville for over 50 years, leaving a legacy of hard work, loyalty, and a warm welcome to everyone she met. She also devoted her time to volunteering with Habitat for Humanity for five years, embodying her belief in helping others and building a stronger community. A faithful member of St. Mark United Methodist Church since 1963, Fran found strength and solace in her faith. Fran loved her family fiercely and was equally passionate about her South Carolina roots. Known for her sass and quick wit, Fran had a talent for telling jokes—often not clean ones—and she never missed a chance to make someone laugh, whether they wanted to or not. She had a knack for striking up conversations with anyone, earning her the title of “matriarch of Rocky Hill.” If you lived in Rocky Hill, you knew Fran. A lifelong Lady Vols fan, Fran was a self-appointed assistant coach, never shy about sharing—or shouting—her opinions on the game. Her life was a collection of stories and laughter, and her family treasures the countless memories she created along the way. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Ben Atchley Veterans Home for their incredible kindness and care for Fran, as well as the team at Morning Pointe Assisted Living. A special thank you to Pam & Joe Toole, and Cody Eason for their daily care and friendship, which meant so much to Fran. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: St. Mark United Methodist Church, www.stmarkknox.org, Habitat for Humanity, www.habitat.org, or The Pat Summitt Foundation, www.patsummitt.org. Fran's legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and her laughter will echo through the stories she left behind. The family will receive friends on Friday from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Rose Funeral & Cremation – Mann. A memorial celebrating Fran’s life will be on Saturday at 1:00 pm at St. Mark’s Methodist Church. Online condolences may be made at www.rosefuneraltn.com

Tributes

Frances "Fran" Nixon Warlick

June 30, 1929 - January 20, 2025