Frances Karen Chaney James

November 9, 1936 – March 1, 2026

Frances Karen Chaney James of Nicholasville, Kentucky passed away Sunday afternoon, March 1, 2026. She was born to the late Herbert Chaney and Durie B. Chaney on November 9, 1936 in Pikeville, Kentucky. She graduated from the High School of Pikeville in 1953 and went on to attend college at Pikeville College. She relocated to Ohio with her mother where she worked at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio. While at WPAFB, she was introduced to the love of her life, Claude Samuel “Sam” James. They were married in Pikeville, Kentucky on October 24, 1959. They then settled in Independence, Missouri until they transferred to Santa Maria, California. From there, they lived in Huntsville, Alabama; Longmont, Colorado; and were able to finally relocate back to Kentucky in Nicholasville.

Fran attended classes at the University of Kentucky, and also worked for The School of Physical Therapy and later, for the Chaplain’s Office, both at UK. She was a member of Troy Presbyterian Church in Versailles, Kentucky, where she and Sam were active members for many years. She was active in several church committees and loved singing in the choir. Fran liked to sew, cook and bake, and was the happiest when she had her family all around her.

Fran was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, her parents, and both brothers Herbert Chaney, Jr. and Ernest Chaney. She is survived by her three children – Karen (Arlie) Mullins, Melissa Fordham, and Jon (Renee) James; 4 grandchildren – Nick (Jeannette) Mullins, Josh (Jessie) Fordham, Heather (Jeff) Morris, and Tyler (Brittany) Fordham; and 7 great-grandchildren (with another due in August).

The family would like to thank Bluegrass Hospice Care and Central Baptist Hospital, as well as Cedarhurst Memory Care of Nicholasville for their loving care and compassion.

Details regarding a memorial service will be announced by the family at a later time. In lieu of flowers or gifts, contributions can be made to Troy Presbyterian Church, 11021 Troy Pike, Versailles, Kentucky 40383.

Betts & West Funeral Home is honored to serve Frances and her family.