Frances H. (Knicely) Black-Welch, 90, of Springfield passed away Wednesday evening, September 10, 2008 in the IOOF Home of Ohio.

She was born January 7, 1918 in New Carlisle, Ohio, the daughter of Howard E. and Sarah E. (Hale) Knicely.

Frances was a member of the Eastern Star for 50 plus years where she was a Past Matron (Portia) Caroline Chapter. She was a member of the Northside Baptist Church and enjoyed working in the gift shop at the IOOF Home and volunteering at the Mercy Medical Center. Frances was a very loving mother and grandmother and will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include four daughters and sons-in-law, Barbara and Shelby Honchell of Urbana, Ohio, Kay and David Woodruff of North Lewisburg, Ohio, Judy and Karl Sinclair of Catawba, Ohio, Janet and John Rice of Springfield, Ohio; one son and daughter-in-law, Howard and Linda Black of Greensburg, Indiana; one step-daughter, Roberta and Vernon Dunlap of Tucson, Arizona; one sister, Janet Kadel of Caramel, Indiana; 12 grandchildren; eight step-grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; 15 step-great grandchildren; five great great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and a very special friend, Mark Henry of Springfield.

She was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Andrew K. Black in 1970; second husband, Robert K. Welch in 2002; two sisters, Alma Delaney and Anna Berry; one brother, Carl Knicely and one granddaughter, Tessa Scott.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2008 from 2-5 p.m. with Eastern Star services starting at 4:30 p.m. in the LITTLETON & RUE FUNERAL HOME.

Funeral services will be held on Monday at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service in the Northside Baptist Church, 2415 Derr Road, Springfield, Ohio with Pastor David Hill officiating.

A private inurnment will be held at the convenience of the family.