Frances Johnson Mathis Pope, 73, passed away on June 12 at her home in East Ridge.

Frances is survived by her husband Glen Pope and her two daughters, Cindy Mathis and Cathy (Richard) Mathis Cook. Also mourning her loss are her two surviving sisters, Suzie Johnson Beeman and Nancy Mount, and her brother, Michael (Brenda) Johnson.

She was born in Gadsden, Ala. on April 2, 1948 to Leonard and Clara Nunn Johnson. She grew up in a large, loving family of 12 brothers and sisters. Her siblings who predeceased her were Leonard, Tom, Bob, and Paul Johnson, along with sisters Louise Garrison, Louelle Warren, Peggy Smith, Leola Gowens, and Marie Johnson.

Frances graduated from Central High School in 1966

She began a long and varied career beginning at Miller Bros. department store in the advertising department. She left the work force for more than a decade to care for her two young daughters.

Frances resumed her working career by going to work for McDonald’s Restaurants in a corporate capacity heading up promotions in the Chattanooga area.

She was lured away from corporate to help manage McDonald’s stores for franchisees in the local area.

When she and Glen married, Frances turned her attention to her community, her home and garden, and her beloved dogs.

In her later years, Frances was a community activist in East Ridge, helping educate residents about the operations of municipal government, and influencing policy makers.

Per Frances’ request, there will be no visitation or service.