Frances Lucille Best

Frances Lucille Best, age 96, of Greenville, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, at Rest Haven Nursing Home in Greenville.

She was born on January 9, 1930, in Union City, Ohio, to the late Eugene and Nellie (Farmer) Ellison.

In addition to her parents, Frances was preceded in death by her loving husband, Eugene “Bud” Best; siblings, Kenneth Ellison, Jimmy Ellison, Jerry Ellison, Mary Jean Starr, and Margaret Westerman; son in law, Kim Thompson; and daughter in law, Brenda Best.

Frances is survived by her loving children, Robert (Susan) Best, Terry Best, Mike (Jeannette) Best, Beth Thompson, and Jane (Robert) Ross; her sisters, Kay Ellison and Phyllis Davis; her brother, Harry Edward "Ed" Ellison; twelve grandchildren; and eighteen great-grandchildren.

Frances graduated from Union City High School in Indiana in 1949. She dedicated over 35 years of her life working as a nurse's aide at Wayne Hospital, where she was well known for her strong work ethic and dependability. She faithfully worked the 3:00-11:00 p.m. shift, caring for countless patients with compassion and commitment before retiring.

Known for her spirited personality, Frances enjoyed arguing with her children and never hesitated to make her opinions known. She was famously bossy-but always sweet-and her family wouldn't have had her any other way. Her strength, humor, and honesty left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Faith was central to Frances’ life. She attended the Church of the Nazarene for most of her years, worshiping for many years at the Bradford Church of the Nazarene before later becoming a member of the Nazarene Church in Greenville, Ohio. Frances was deeply involved in church life and was a valued and important presence in the congregation. She faithfully counted the offering, ran the nursery at the Greenville church, and participated in many church groups and activities.

Frances will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose love, guidance, and strong spirit shaped generations. Her legacy of care, faith, and family devotion will live on through those she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Jamie Ross for her love and care while taking care of Frances and Everheart Hospice for their exceptional care.

Memorial contributions may be made to Everheart Hospice in Frances's memory.

A visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00 PM on Friday, January 23, 2026 at the Church of the Nazarene, 7584 OH-118, Greenville, OH 45331.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM at the church. Burial will follow at Greenville Union Cemetery.

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.tributefuneralhomes.com.