OBITUARY: Myrtle Frances Nelms

We are saddened to announce the passing of a wonderful person, whose life touched so many around them. This obituary is a tribute to their story, the people she loved, and the difference she made.

Fran Nelms, age 84 of Gallatin, TN, passed away August 9, 2025 in her home. There will be a Celebration of Life on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at 1:00pm in Michie, TN at the Church of God of Prophecy on Hwy. 57.

Fran was born July 12, 1941 in Ramer, TN, McNairy County to parents; Edward Marlin Baker and Myrtle Mae Weatherford Baker. She was the 10th of 12 children.

She is survived by three siblings; David Baker (Barbara) of Michie, TN, Chloe Brassell (Jim) of Gallatin, TN and Ann Johnson (William) of Iuka, MS. While she had no children of her own, she had many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly and doted on and delighted in as if they were her very own.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Tony Nelms, her parents Marlin and Myrtle Baker, and eight siblings, Jr. Baker, Tom Baker, Virgie Mae Harvell, Earlene Foster, Joe Baker, Jane Austin, Paul Baker and Jessie Neill.

While she had not formally joined a church after returning to Tennessee, she was a person with a strong faith. She was a woman of constant prayer and believed that God was always taking care of her.

Though her beginnings were simple and humble, her ambitions and aspirations were large. She graduated from Michie High School in 1959. Following graduation, she left for the big city and attended Cosmetology School in Memphis, TN.

Following her dreams, she opened a full-service Salon, Spa and Boutique, Beau Monde, Inc., as well as two Cosmetology Schools. She was a person who accepted nothing but the best and had high expectations and ambitions, most of which she achieved.

She loved to teach and share her knowledge with those who worked for and with her to help them achieve their fullest potential. She was a tough independent, graceful Southern lady with a very giving and hospitable nature. She had a real knack for customer service and hospitality in her businesses and with her family and friends.

She was no stranger to hard work and achieved much success in her career earning the respect of her peers and building a phenomenal business. Her dedication showed in everything she did, and she was always willing to help others take on new challenges.

Her achievements were many, but she used her success to focus on making a positive impact. She was totally passionate about the Cosmetology industry and loved it so much, she was still working in her seventies. She “retired” in 1995, but that was short lived as she said, “you can only play so much golf and attend so many tea parties”, so she went back to the work she loved.

While she didn’t really have hobbies, other than her work, she enjoyed traveling and loved experiencing the fine arts, theatre, restaurants and shopping. Though her taste was impeccable, her desires were simple and her spirit was humble.

She delighted in seeing chickens and goats and eating turnip greens, cornbread and buttermilk. Above all else, she cherished family and friends and the time she could be with them.

She was a caring daughter, sister, aunt, and friend and was always there to listen, offer advice, or share a laugh. Her relationships were filled with love, trust, and support.

Though she is gone, her kindness and wisdom will stay with us. Many will remember her generosity and the way she made everyone feel welcome. The lessons she taught and the love she gave continue to inspire those who knew her.

We celebrate not just her life, but the memories we share and the ways she made the world a better place. As we say goodbye, we remember the happiness and joy she brought into our lives. May we all carry forward their generous spirit, and may she rest in peace, surrounded forever by the love that never ends.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks for donations to be made to St. Jude’s in her honor.