Frances M. Thorpe, nee Groennert, 82, of New Baden, died Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at Memorial Hospital in Belleville.

She was born November 3, 1928 in Nashville to Fred and Clara (McMurdie) Groennert, and they preceded her in death.

She married Dr. Charles Thorpe DVM on August 8, 1954 in Nashville, and he preceded her in death on January 21, 2009.

She was also preceded in death by a brother, Fred Groennert, and a sister, Lillian Groennert.

Surviving is her daughter Dr. Charissa Thorpe O.D. (husband Dr. Robert Klinsky O.D.) of New Baden; granddaughters Claire Thorpe-Klinsky (fiancée Cody Reynolds) and Whitney Thorpe-Klinsky; Sisters-in-law Pat Groennert of Trenton, Chella Thorpe of Crossville, AL; nieces and nephews Leanne (Steve) McDonald, John (Lisa) Groennert, Tricia (Cory) Williamson, all of Trenton, Ron Thorpe of Crossville AL, Carla (Jeff) McCollum of Ackworth GA; many great nieces and nephews, and her beloved dog, Roxy.

Frances was retired school teacher, having taught for 37 years, most of which were the 4th grade at New Baden Elementary. She was a graduate of Southern Illinois University of Carbondale, and member of Beta Eta chapter of Alpha Gamma Delta. She was also member of Zion United Church of Christ in New Baden and a past member of the Wesclin Education Association. In the early 1970’s, while serving on the Wesclin Advisory Committee, she was instrumental in the establishment of the present Wesclin High School. A strong believer in education, she was also an avid Wesclin sports fan and especially enjoyed the activities in which her family members participated. Family was very important to her.  

Funeral services will be held on Monday October 10, 2011 at 10:00 am at Zion United Church of Christ in New Baden with Rev. Gretchen Sterrett and Rev. Elmer Bowman Jr. officiating. Interment Green Mount Cemetery, New Baden. 

Visitation will be held on Sunday October 9 from 5 to 8 PM and Monday October 10 from 8 to 9:30 am at Moss Funeral Home in Trenton.  

Memorials can be made to Zion United Church of Christ Building Fund and will be received at the funeral home.