Frances Louise Gatton

Frances Louise Gatton passed away peacefully at home on May 25, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 24, 1950, in Hollywood, Maryland, she was the daughter of Elmer M. Gatton and Abbie L. Morgan Gatton.

Frances spent part of her adult life living in Minnesota and Missouri, where she raised her family. She worked in several service industry roles throughout her life, including positions in dry cleaning and grocery stores. In the late 1980s, she returned home to Maryland to care for her aging parents and later devoted many months to lovingly supporting her aunt through her battle with Alzheimer’s.

She is survived by her three sons, Charles, Donald, and Travis Bebee; seven cherished grandchildren; and her sisters, Judy Gatton of Fort Worth-Texas, Diane Whittle of Anderson-Indiana, and Jo Ann Demko (Vic) of Hollywood, Maryland. She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Abbie Gatton, and her siblings, Elmer Gatton Jr., Steve Gatton, Jackie Gatton, and June Gatton.

Fran found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved living on the family farm, mowing her lawn, and driving the Gator through the fields. She adored butterflies and treasured family gatherings filled with games, laughter, and love. One of her favorite daily traditions was sharing five o’clock coffee and brownies with her sisters. Fran also had a special bond with her beloved adopted shelter cat, Gracie, who brought her much comfort and companionship.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday June 3, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM with a funeral service at 1:00 PM at Mattingly Gardiner Funeral Home with interment at Joy Chapel Cemetery, 44260 Joy Chapel Road, Hollywood, MD. 20636. Jeff Venendaal, Cory Demko, Ayden Demko, Jack Venendaal, Jackie Gatton, and Terry Gatton. Jane Venendaal, Addisyn Demko and Payton Demko will serve as honorary pall bearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Frances to Hospice of St. Mary’s (P.O. Box 625 Leonardtown, MD. 20650). Hospice provided great care and support for Frances and the family during the past several weeks.

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.