News and Views

Frances B. Allis, 97, widow of the late Rev. Gloyd Allis, died Nov. 2, 2015, at her residence in Anderson, Illinois. A Memorial service was held Nov.10 at New Horizons UMC in Anderson with the Revs. Gina Kirkland and Doris Winford officiating.

Frances Buckingham was born March 13, 1918, in Frederick to the late Maurice and Gertrude Buckingham. She lived most of her life in Maryland and resided in Anderson for the past several years. 

She was an active member of New Horizons UMC in Anderson, but had been active in her church and community throughout her life. She once baked 80 pies for a church dinner, and at age 92, she was chairwoman for a major fundraiser at her church.

She and Gloyd Allis met while she was pursuing a Master’s Degree at Northwestern University and he was in seminary at Garrett Theological Seminary. They married in 1943 and had two children.

Allis was supportive and active in her husband’s ministry from his student days to his retirement. He served in the Detroit Conference for two years before his appointment to Doubs Charge in the Baltimore Annual Conference (1943-45). He was ordained an Elder in 1945 then was appointed to Potomac UMC, 1946-63; In 1964, he began a pastorate to Emmanuel UMC in Beltsville until 1970; Ashton UMC followed for 1971-72; and Washington Grove/Emory Grove, 1973-1977.

She was retired from Montgomery County (Md.) Schools, where she had been a teacher and administrator. She was a Madison County Literacy Coalition volunteer and a member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1988 and a son, Edward Nathaniel Allis, in 1984.

Survivors include her daughter Gail (Richard E.) Ward of Anderson, three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, as well as a daughter-in-law, nephew and niece.

Condolences may be sent to Gail Ward, 4508 Summer Drive, Anderson, IN 46012.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association, 6415 Castleway West Drive, Suite 114, Indianapolis, IN 46250.