Mrs. Frances H. Dutton 90 passed away on January 25, 2021. Mrs. Dutton had recently resided at St Gabriel Assisted Living in Murrells Inlet, SC but was a long-time resident of Darlington, SC. She graduated Darlington High School, excelling in academics, and winning the State Spelling Bee Contest. She worked for Southern Bell/AT&T for 40 plus years, beginning as a Switchboard Operator and progressing to becoming one of the first female Testing Technicians. She was a member of the Southern Bell Pioneers where she contributed to aiding the elderly and Veterans. She was well known in the community for crocheting items which she donated to those in need as well as to friends. She was an active member of Central Baptist Church in Darlington.

Mrs. Dutton was an avid gardener, producing beautiful flowers and vegetables at her home while feeding and watching her backyard birds. She also knitted, crocheted, participated in arts crafts programs, and traveled with the local Recreation Department. She most enjoyed reading, puzzles, games, and contests where she exercised her mind. She enjoyed long days on the beach with her family as well as supporting her grandchildren in sports.

Mrs. Dutton is a widower of Clyde C. Dutton of Darlington. She is preceded in death by her parents, Jennings H Howle and Nell (Parnell) Howle; brother Jennings Howle Jr; and sister Marjorie H Davis. Surviving are sister Shirley H Wallace of Florence; daughter Debra Chandler (Cecil Chandler) of Surfside Beach, SC; daughter Dawn Sumner (Ken Sumner) of Florence, SC; grandchildren Lee Mozingo and Kathleen Sumner; great-grandchild Brooks Cribb; along with several beloved nieces and nephews.

Graveside Service will be held at Grove Hill Cemetery in Darlington on Thursday, January 28 at 11 am, directed by Belk Funeral Home. Friends can speak with the family after the service. Memorials can be made to Fostering Hope, Attn Al Stein, 308 Elm Street, Conway, SC 29526.