Ms Frances
".....I want to have one more tailgate"
The “Original VFL" (Vol For Life)
Ms. Frances’ Story
By all accounts, Ms. Frances had been a volunteer since birth—98 years ago—and no one who knew her ever doubted it. At the time of her dream, she was living in an assisted living community, enjoying her days to the fullest and never missing a televised Vols game.
Her deep love for UT sports began in high school and continued through her 31½-year career in the University of Tennessee’s College of Agriculture. She was a dedicated season ticket holder from the start of her career until 2012, when she was 85 years old. Friends recalled her taking the bus to away games and how she never missed a bowl game, including the 1998 National Championship. One of her supervisors, knowing how passionate she was, even gave her his seats on the 50-yard line—her perfect spot to cheer on her beloved Vols. She proudly collected ticket stubs dating all the way back to the 1949 season.
In the spirit of Ms. Frances devotion to the Vols, a big tailgate was planned by the YOLO Foundation. It was arranged for the UT mascot, Smokey, to join the celebration, surrounded by her friends and family.
As the event went on, she began to tire, and someone gently asked how she was feeling. With a smile, she said, “Exhausted.” When asked if she’d like to return to her room to rest, she quickly and firmly replied, “No, not until this is finished.” She stayed until the last moment, enjoying every bit of her “Final Tailgate.”
Just two days later, Ms. Frances passed away—her heart full, her dream fulfilled, and her Volunteer spirit shining brighter than ever.
Ms. Frances’ Story
By all accounts, Ms. Frances had been a volunteer since birth—98 years ago—and no one who knew her ever doubted it. At the time of her dream, she was living in an assisted living community, enjoying her days to the fullest and never missing a televised Vols game.
Her deep love for UT sports began in high school and continued through her 31½-year career in the University of Tennessee’s College of Agriculture. She was a dedicated season ticket holder from the start of her career until 2012, when she was 85 years old. Friends recalled her taking the bus to away games and how she never missed a bowl game, including the 1998 National Championship. One of her supervisors, knowing how passionate she was, even gave her his seats on the 50-yard line—her perfect spot to cheer on her beloved Vols. She proudly collected ticket stubs dating all the way back to the 1949 season.
In the spirit of Ms. Frances devotion to the Vols, a big tailgate was planned by the YOLO Foundation. It was arranged for the UT mascot, Smokey, to join the celebration, surrounded by her friends and family.
As the event went on, she began to tire, and someone gently asked how she was feeling. With a smile, she said, “Exhausted.” When asked if she’d like to return to her room to rest, she quickly and firmly replied, “No, not until this is finished.” She stayed until the last moment, enjoying every bit of her “Final Tailgate.”
Just two days later, Ms. Frances passed away—her heart full, her dream fulfilled, and her Volunteer spirit shining brighter than ever.
