September 25, 1928 - January 15, 2025
Frances (Hayes) McKillop was born on September 25, 1928 in Didsbury, Alberta to Elmer and Christina Hayes the eldest of seven children. She passed away peacefully on January 15th, 2025, at the age of 96, with family at her side.
In 1954 she married Peter McKillop and her and only daughter Joyce resided in Bearberry until 1958 when Peter and Frances bought a café in Sundre and named it the "Corral Café" She operated it for 10 years before selling and then back to Bearberry focusing on farming and cattle ranching.
Frances was a part of the Bearberry Wapitana Society and earned the distinction of Mrs. Bearberry. In 1988 the community expressed their appreciation and chose her for the "Heart of Gold" award. She was nominated for the Community Building Award as well and is honored in the Sundre Museum under the Woman of the Aspen land.
Frances was a life member of the Order of Royal Purple in Sundre as well as a life member of the Sundre Legion Ladies Auxilary. She had been active in the Brownie and Guide movement and earned the post of District Commissioner. Frances had a great love for her Church and was a member for many years at the Faith Lutheran Church in Sundre.
Frances was accomplished in cake decorating, quilt making, canning, crocheting and embroidering but known best for her fantastic pie making.
After failing health Frances spent her last two years in the Olds Long Term Care facility. She built close relationships with staff and residents. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude for their kindness, care and compassion extended to her during her time there. Her celebration of life service was held on January 25th at the Faith Lutheran Church in Sundre.
She is survived by one brother Tom, daughter Joyce, three Grandchildren, eight great Grandchildren and two great, great Grandchildren.
