Frances Cooke Avery

Frances Cooke Avery, of Berrien Springs, went to be with her Savior on July 20, 2020; she died in her home at the age of 93. Frances was born on April 2, 1927, in Flint, MI, as the second child of four born to Sherman and Berthena Willard. She would later move with her family to Port Huron, MI, and graduate from Port Huron High School in 1944. Frances went to Wheaton College, and graduated with a degree in Chemistry. She married Weldon Cooke in 1950, and they had four boys. Later, she would obtain her teaching degree; she taught for the Berrien Spring school system for several years. Fran loved being a mom and dedicated herself to raising her four boys. She always encouraged them to be disciplined in their love of learning, and later all four boys would become physicians. Fran also loved playing the piano; she used this gift, playing with a servant’s heart, as a way to minister to others. Many of the family memories revolve around Fran playing the piano. She played for many years at her church, Berrien Center Bible Church, where she was a faithful member for over 60 years; Fran loved the Lord. Frances married Dallas Avery in 1987. He preceded her in death, passing away in 2013. Also preceding her in death are her parents (Sherman and Berthena), and two brothers (Philip and Eldon). She is survived by her sister (Helen Harmon) and sister-in-law (Jean Willard). Also surviving Frances are her sons: John (Azita) of Sanford, FL; James (Terri) of Atlanta, GA; David (Jeannette) of Berrien Springs, MI; and Daniel (BeckyJo) of Granger, IN. In addition, Frances has 14 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. She will be lovingly remembered as a devoted Mom, Grandma, sister, and friend. In lieu of flowers, please send all gifts in Fran’s memory to Berrien Center Bible Church Memorial Fund. Visitation to be at Oronoko Township Feather Park,4583 E. Snow Rd., Berrien Springs, on August 2, 2020, 2-5pm. Masks and social distancing will be in place at all times