Frances Vernell Jeter, affectionately known as “Baby Sis,” was born on January 28, 1934, in Hustle, Virginia, to the late William and Cora Rollins. She was the 11th child and the youngest daughter of thirteen children. She entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, January 2, 2025, at mhome in Maryland with family by her side.
Frances was educated in the public schools of Essex County, Virginia, attending a local two- room school before graduating from Essex County High School. On June 6, 1953, Frances was united in holy matrimony to Robert "Stack" Jeter, whom she lovingly called “Robert L.”, in Hustle, Virginia. The couple settled in Washington, D.C., where they shared a life filled with love and devotion for 45 years, until his passing in 1998. This union was blessed with two children: Gregory Jeter and Robyn Jeter. Frances dedicated over 25 years of her career as a dental assistant in Washington, D.C., and also held a part-time position at Hecht’s in Marlow Heights, Maryland, for several years. She was known for her work ethic and took great joy in both of her jobs. A woman of deep faith, Frances gave her life to Christ at an early age and became a member of St. Stephens Baptist Church. Baptized in the Mill Pond along with many family members, she remained a devoted and active member of the church throughout her life. She contributed her time to the Women’s Day committee, serving as captain or co-captain for several years, always helping with a kind and generous spirit.
Frances was a loving and selfless person, known for her devotion to her family. She cared for several of her siblings during their times of illness and always put others before herself. Her love extended not only to her children but also to her grandchildren, who adored her. Her home was always a welcoming space, where you might find her immersed in puzzles—often 1,000 pieces or more—or enjoying her favorite stories like The Young and the Restless. Frances also loved taking trips to the casinos in Maryland and Atlantic City, where she enjoyed the thrill of the games and the time spent with family and friends.
Frances also took great pride in her appearance, often proudly telling others that she never dyed her hair. She lived to be 90 years old and maintained a full head of hair, with barely a trace of gray—a true testament to her vibrant spirit and remarkable longevity. In 2017, Frances was diagnosed with dementia but continued to enjoy life with favorite activities such as walking around her neighborhood, solving jigsaw puzzles, and joining family gatherings. However, the illness continued to take its toll, and in the latter months of 2024, her health declined rapidly. After a brief stay in the hospital, she passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loved ones.
Frances was preceded in death by her parents, William and Cora Rollins; her son Gregory Jeter (Edna), her siblings: William C. Rollins (Vashti), Bernard T. Rollins (Annie Mae), Eugene A. Rollins, Susie C. Jetters (Joseph), LaVerne C. Parker (Hugh), Philip J. Rollins (Margaret), Horace R. Rollins (Shirley), Leroy S. Rollins (Myrtle), Arnell C. Rollins (Barbara), Wesley T. Rollins, and Raymond W. Rollins. She leaves to cherish her memory one daughter, Robyn Jeter of Maryland; two granddaughters, Shani Jeter of Washington, D.C., and Niya Jeter (Rylan) of Florida; two grandsons, Kenan Turner (Melika) of Pennsylvania and Malik Jeter (Christina) of Maryland; one great-grandson, ,Shaun Brim of California; one brother Franklin Rollins (Marion) of Maryland; one daughter-in- law, Edna Jeter of Washington, DC, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss her deeply.
Family and friends are invited to join the family at 10:30 AM on Friday, January 17, 2025, for a Celebration of Life at the National Church of God, located at 6701 Bock Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744. A repast will immediately follow the service. The family will hold a burial service at St. Stephen’s Baptist Church, 29436 Sparta Road, Milford, VA 22514, on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 12:00 PM.
Friday, January 17, 2025
Starts at 10:30 am (Eastern time)
National Church of God
Saturday, January 18, 2025
Starts at 12:00 pm (Eastern time)
St. Stephen’s Baptist Church
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