Frances Jean Ard Johnson Townes, 80, passed away on Easter Sunday, March 27, 2016 at her home in Front Royal, VA.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, March 31, at 11:00 a.m., at First Baptist Church, 14 W. First Street, Front Royal, VA conducted by the Rev. Dr. R. Mark Jordon. Inurnment will be private..

Frances was born in Canoe, AL, January 21, 1936 daughter of the late Charles and Dora Ard. She grew up in Pensacola and McDavid, FL and graduated from Century High School, Century, FL. She was preceded in death by her first husband Robert L. Johnson.

Frances worked 34 years for the FBI and Department of Defense – Army. She lived in Annandale and Fairfax, VA until she moved to Front Royal in 1988. She was an active member of First Baptist Church in Front Royal, VA since 1988 serving in many capacities including deacon, treasurer, and choir member. In addition, Frances was a member of the Front Royal Garden club. She volunteered for the Salvation Army, the Warren Memorial Hospital Auxillary, and C-Cap.

She is survived by her husband, Richard A. Townes; a daughter, Pamela Kay Johnson-Ammerman and her husband Harold Ammerman of Lignum, VA; a step-son, Turner Clem and wife Debi of Montgomery, AL; three grandchildren, Angela Frances Baker of Front Royal, Mathew Ammerman and wife Amy of Riva, MD, and Christi Griffin and her husband Lyall of Winchester, VA. She is also survived by four great-grandchildren, Angel Kay Baker, Madison Ammerman, Jacob and Hunter Griffin; three sisters, Mary Graf and husband Gary, Connie Rigby, and Joanne Freeman; and many nieces and nephews.

A luncheon will follow the funeral service at First Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, 14 West First Street, Front Royal, VA. 22630.

Arrangements are being handled by Maddox Funeral Home, Inc.