Frances Shepard Houghton, the daughter of Albert and Ava Shepard was born May 17, 1921 in Farmington, Kentucky. She passed away peacefully on Friday, February 26, 2016 at Provena St. Anne Center, Rockford, Illinois at the age of 94 years, 9 months and 9 days.

Frances attended Lindenwood College in St. Charles, Missouri, where her roommate, Joan Houghton Williams, introduced her to her brother, Deemer Houghton. Fran and Deemer were married on October 19, 1940, and spent their lives in the town they loved: Red Oak, Iowa!! Fran was involved in the community with PEO Chapter HB, First Congregational United Church of Christ and Montgomery County Historical Society, all of Red Oak. She was also an avid golfer, tennis enthusiast, rose garden specialist and a passionate water colorist. Painting rural Iowa settings, vacation spots, and florals brought her much joy!

Fran was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Deemer Houghton on April 28, 1993.

Fran is survived by her son, Robert Deemer Houghton and Deborah Langager of Cedar Rapids, IA and her daughter, Barb Houghton Kohl and husband Dave of Rockford, IL; four grandchildren: Heidi (Joe) Jeffery, Amy (Steve) Pettit, Sarah Kohl and Thomas Deemer (Maren) Kohl; six great-grandchildren: Jett, Hadley, Audrey, Maddie, Jack and Max; other relatives and many friends.

May God bless her memory and give strength to those who mourn.

Celebration of Fran's life will be held Saturday, March 5, 2016 at 10:30 AM at the First Congregational Church of Christ in Red Oak.

Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery, Red Oak

Visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the service from 9:30 to 10:30 AM at the church.

Memorials in her honor may be sent to the Red Oak First Congregational Church of Christ or Red Oak Country Club.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.sldfuneralhome.com

Sellergren-Lindell-DeMarce Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.