Frances Louise Van Hooser, who lived almost all of her 100 years in Kansas City, Kan., will celebrate her 100th birthday with a private reception on Sept. 27 at the historic Grinter House in Kansas City, Kan.
Van Hooser was born in Harrisonville, Mo., in her maternal grandmother’s home on Sept. 27, 1914. Her parents brought her home to Kansas City, Kan., shortly after her birth.
She lived in Wyandotte County almost all of her life, moving to the Tonganoxie Nursing Center in March 2013.
Her parents were James and Fannie Matthews, and she was the youngest of three children. She had two older brothers, Sam and Ernest Matthews.
Frances attended Bryant Elementary in Kansas City, Kan., Northwest Junior High, and graduated from Wyandotte High School in May of 1933. She started attending Immanuel Baptist Church of Kansas City, Kan., at the age of 7, and gave her life to Christ in baptism at the age of 14. Immanuel Baptist has been her lifelong church home.
She married Richard Thomas Van Hooser Dec. 16, 1933. Frances and Richard had four children; Richard (Dick), Carol, Gary, and Connie. All four children attended the same schools as Frances: Bryant Elementary, Northwest Junior High, and Wyandotte High schools.
Frances and Richard were married 40 years until she became widowed in 1973. Her priority has always been her faith and family. She was an active member of the PTA, Cub Scout Leader and Girl Scout leader. She supported her daughter in dancing, attending many performances through the years. She also supported her sons in various sports, especially baseball, swimming and diving. Frances has 12 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, 10 great-great grandchildren, with one great-great grandchild on the way. Frances also has several nieces and nephews. Her family continues to grow.
Frances is an avid fan of the Kansas City Royals and has attended games throughout the years. She was honored for her 90th birthday at Kauffman Stadium while attending the game with her grandson. She is also a fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, and is a huge fan of the University of Kansas basketball team.
Frances lived in Kansas City, Kan., until she moved into Tonganoxie Nursing Center in March of 2013. She welcomes visitors and loves conversation. She knows a lot about the history of Kansas and especially the history of Wyandotte County. Friends and family will be gathering with Frances, at a reception by invitation only, to celebrate her 100th birthday on Sept. 27, 2014, at the historic Grinter House visitors’ center in Kansas City, Kan.
Frances continues to bless many with her life, her daughter said.