Frances Pedigo James went to her Holy Father May 11, 2026 after an extended illness. She was born Jan. 4, 1936 to Toy Ralph and Mable Gambrell Pedigo. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Bryson L. James.

She is survived by daughters, Deborah Frankenberg, Cynthia Preston and Gerlinde Rogers (Bobby) Eslick; son, Edward (Miriam) James; grandson, Michael (Talitha) Oettinger, Jr.; great-grandchildren, Lucy Oettinger and Berean Oettinger; special friends, Nathan, Aaron and Matthew Davenport; aunts and cousins.

A member of First Baptist Church in McMinnville, Frances received BS and Master's Degrees at MTSU. She earned her CPA license, was a member of Gamma Chi Society, Phi Sigma Beta Society, Delta Mu Delta and was the first woman to receive the Joe Dearman Memorial Award. She was the Secretary/Treasurer for Cumberland Amusement Company, taught accounting at MTSU, TTU and Motlow State Community College, was the Clinic Administrator/Controller of McMinnville Medical Center and was the owner and developer of Collinwood Estates.

The family would like to thank all the employees of the Webb House in McMinnville and Gentiva Hospice for their care, kindness and compassion.

Funeral service will be held at noon. Friday, May 15, 2026 in High’s Chapel with Paul Roberts officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 10 a.m. until time of service at High’s. Burial will follow at Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Warren County.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of McMinnville Library, Magness Library or the American Cancer Society by clicking here.

Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Main Street Journal

May 12, 2026

Share this article
The link has been copied!