Sara Frances Shlemon Vinson

Sara Frances Shlemon Vinson June 22nd 1936 to October 20th 2025 Fran passed peacefully surrounded by her loved ones in her home on October 20, 2025. She was 89 years of age. Fran was born to Nathan Bailey and Mary (Woods) Bailey of Olive Branch, Mississippi who preceded her in death. Fran was one of ten siblings, and the only one to leave her hometown of Mississippi. She met and married Joseph Shlemon in 1951. They traveled to many places during his time in the Navy before settling down in Southern Maryland in 1964. Together they raised 5 children, one daughter and four sons. They were blessed with 9 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren who all knew her as Memau. Joseph preceded her in death in 1986. Fran was a beautician and later became manager of Mei’s Hair Salon for many years. After that she worked as a department manager for Kmart before retiring after a long career. Fran was blessed to have found love again and married Al Vinson, another Navy man in 1995. Al also preceded her in 2013. Fran enjoyed antiques, thrift shopping and Christmas with family around the tree. She is survived by her two sons, Lawrence and Kenneth Shlemon. The family will receive friends on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, in the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home, Leonardtown, Maryland. After a full and well-travelled life, Fran will finally be returning home to Olive Branch, Mississippi to be laid to rest at the family cemetery. Family will receive loved ones on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, in the Brantley Funeral Home. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 2:00 PM, at Brantley Funeral Home followed by the burial at Lebanon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of St. Mary’s County or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be made to the family at www.mgfh.com. Arrangements provided by the Mattingley-Gardiner Funeral Home and Cremation Services, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.