Every community has its quiet heroes - those whose decades of service create ripples that touch countless lives. This week, we're privileged to spotlight 93-year-old Frances Reese, whose 70+ years in Henderson County embody the spirit of selfless community building.
Frances takes us on a remarkable journey through local history, beginning with co-founding Reese Insurance with her husband Ted - a family business they operated for 50 years before passing to their daughter. Her story gains fascinating texture as she recounts helping establish the Abraham Kirkendall chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in 1996, hosting their first meeting in her office during an ice storm with one member arriving in pajamas.
Her talents extend to remarkable craftsmanship, winning national recognition for her hand-quilted creations. Frances's first-place national award for hand quilting and second-place finish for her intricate "Deer Dining Blues" quilt showcase her artistic gifts. Yet she channels these skills toward service, crafting quilts for DAR-sponsored schools and continuing today with the First Baptist Church sewing ministry. Her genealogical expertise has helped 142 people join DAR chapters, while her earlier work with the Hendersonville Business and Professional Women organization successfully advocated for employee childcare programs.
What strikes us most about Frances is how, at nearly 93, she remains dedicated to giving back - spending her days researching family histories and creating quilts for charity. "At almost 93 years old, I can still be doing that and give to somebody," she says with characteristic humility. Her story reminds us that extraordinary impact often comes through consistent, quiet dedication over decades. Who in your community deserves recognition for their lasting contributions? Let us know in the comments or nominate them for our Hometown Hero Series.