Frances McLennan Barnwell

Frances McLennan Barnwell, 86, of Greenville, passed away on Saturday, May 17, 2025. Born in Bedford, England, to the late John McLennan and Kathleen Gibson McLennan.

Describing Frances would be incomplete without mentioning her ability to nurture a flourishing and much-admired English garden, an oasis of color and life that mirrored her own vibrant personality. She took great pride in nurturing her plants, cultivating beauty around her that was admired by all who saw it. Another of her favorite things to do was to cook meals for her family and all of those around her. Sweets and treats were lovingly prepared and often taken to her children's workplaces, a testament to her thoughtful nature and delight in sharing joy through food.

Frances possessed a keen sense of fashion, always finished off with a perfect pair of earrings. An English rose tattoo, her first ever that she got herself at age 50, was a poignant reminder of her cherished heritage. This affinity for beauty extended beyond her appearance; it was evident in how she related to her family and friends, always sprinkling a little of her sunshine wherever she went.

Her role as a mother and grandmother, or “Nanny Franny,” brought immense joy to Frances's life, filled with adventures and explorations alongside her five children and many grandchildren. She loved taking them to the lake, sharing the gentle thrill of fishing, and engaging in activities that built memories that will last their lifetimes. Frances’s laughter, generosity, and nurturing created a safe haven for her loved ones, a testament to her legacy that will resonate through countless stories and treasured moments.

Frances was known for her work ethic. She devoted herself to the two children she held dear, Justin and Logan Krieger, children of David and Page Krieger of Greenville, SC. To them, she was more than a nanny; she was family, and the bond they shared transcended the years, filled with love and laughter. She also enjoyed working for many years at the Greenville Humane Society, where her passion for animals flourished. Whether it was Koi swimming gracefully in her garden pond that she dug herself, a beloved boa constrictor lounging nearby, or the Afghan hounds she showed, she fostered an environment of care and affection for every creature she encountered. Her heart was open to all animals.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by Davis Gipson Barnwell and a granddaughter, Sarah Elizabeth Barnwell.

She is survived by daughters, Angela Barnwell (Joel Wilkinson) and Julie Boozer Young (David ); sons, Alan Barnwell (Carole), Daren Barnwell (Karen) and Davis Barnwell (Kelly Jo); nine grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren and brothers, Michael, David, Robert, Bryan, Graham and Stephen McLennan, as well as her sister Anne Atkins.

A celebration of life memorial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Frances’ honor to the Greenville Humane Society at https://www.greenvillehumane.com or an animal shelter of one’s choice.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory –Powdersville Road, Easley.