Jessie Blanchet

Jessie Frances “Fran” Blanchet (Powell), age 87, formerly of Hot Springs, Arkansas went home to be with the Lord on July 15, 2021.  She was born October 26, 1933 at home in Green Forest, Arkansas. Fran was an extremely outgoing, witty, and humorous person. When she would walk into a room and start talking to anyone, they would all later say that they loved her and she had an amazing personality. Even the staff at Pleasant Hill Senior Care of Benton, Arkansas, that took care of her the past two months of her life have said she always lit up a room and they all loved her and will greatly miss her. Fran also loved to entertain, always being a wonderful hostess to her guests. She was a sorority member of Epsilon Sigma Alpha, Zeta Chi Chapter for several years raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Her two favorite hobbies were bridge and golf. In her earlier years, Fran and her husband, Jim loved to travel together. They went to Spain, Europe, and the Bahamas. They enjoyed hunting for quail and pheasants together. They bravely took a trip with their six children and mother to Mazatlan where a good time was had by all. Fran was also an active member with Hot Springs Baptists Church and she put together several golf tournaments with the church members.

Fran was the daughter of Jesse and Una Olga Coxsey Powell. She was the 10th born child of twelve children. She has joined them all in Heaven and they are probably up to no good. She is also preceded in death by her husband, James Blanchet and her son, Bryan “Skip” Page and her beloved pet, Henry the dog.

Fran leaves behind four daughters: Sharon Blanchet of San Diego, CA, Debra Page and husband Peter of Mena, AR, Gale Page-Kinnard and husband Randy of Little Rock, AR, and Lori Page-McMellon and husband Ellis of Bryant, AR. She also leaves behind 7 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There will be a virtual service on August 14, 2021 at 11 AM at Hurricane Lake Baptist Church in Bryant, Arkansas. If you want to attend the church service you are welcome to.  The family does ask that you wear a mask and social distance. Email qhbossfilly@yahoo.com for a link and password if you would like to attend virtually.

Fran will be buried in a private burial on October 16, 2021 with her closest family and friends in Green Forest, Arkansas where she will be laid to rest with her family at Pickens Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, her family requests donations to be made to either St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Alzheimer’s Association.

Arrangements entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.