Frances Meeteer Smith

DYER CHAPEL-Frances Meeteer Smith, 88 of Cookeville,  passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at NHC of Cookeville. Born on February 6, 1938, in Charlottesville, Virginia, Frances lived a life marked by devotion to her family, community, and the many interests that brought her joy.

Frances was a graduate of Lane High School in Charlottesville, where she laid the foundation for a lifetime of learning and connection. She was a member of the Charlottesville United Methodist Church, where her faith and fellowship enriched not only her own life but also the lives of those around her.

A woman of vibrant spirit and gentle heart, Frances found delight in numerous hobbies that kept her engaged and joyful throughout her years. She loved to play bridge and solve puzzles, pastimes she approached with both keen intellect and convivial warmth. Her garden was a testament to her nurturing nature, blossoming under her care with flowers that reflected her appreciation of beauty and tranquility. Cards and dominoes provided hours of enjoyment in the company of friends, while bird watching allowed her to connect deeply with the natural world. Frances was also an avid swimmer at the YMCA and cherished her years camping with an RV group, adventures that revealed her love for exploration and camaraderie. Above all, her affection for cats was a constant source of comfort and companionship.

Frances’s family was central to her life. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Suzzanne Peet, and her husband, Nate, who reside in Mt. Juliet. Her granddaughter, Lauren Ashley Peet, and her husband, Kaizen Robbins, of Olympia, Washington, also carry forward Frances's legacy of love and resilience. Frances was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Elwood Jackson “EJ” Meeteer and Agnes Lee Huyett Meeteer; her husband, Kenneth Alexander Smith; and her son, Gregory Kenneth Smith.

The memory of Frances Morgan Smith will be treasured by all who knew her. Her kindness, her zest for life, and her unwavering commitment to family and faith stand as enduring testaments to a remarkable life well lived. Those who had the privilege of knowing Frances remember a woman whose gentle presence and spirited pursuits enriched every moment and whose legacy continues through her loved ones.

A burial will be at a later date in Holly Memorial Cemetery in Charlottesville, VA.

In lieu of flowers, adopt a cat.

In honoring Frances’s life, we celebrate a woman whose heart embraced the simple joys and profound connections that define our shared humanity. Her journey reminds us of the strength found in love and the grace of a life dedicated to meaningful engagement with the world and those around her.

Dyer Chapel Hooper-Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements (931)526-7158. Share condolences and memories at www.dyerfh.com