Frankie Calhoun

Asheville-Frankie Salina Morgan Calhoun, age 91, of Givens Estates, Arden, NC passed away on Thursday, February 16, 2006 after a period of declining health. A native of Pembroke, GA, she was the wife of the Reverend Dr. E. Clayton Calhoun and the daughter of the late Ryals Lafayette and Mamie Goodson Morgan. In addition to her parents, she was also pre-deceased by a son, Eugene Clayton Calhoun, III, and several brothers and sisters. She studied at the Youmans School of Music and excelled at both voice and piano. After moving to Orlando, FL, she met her husband, and they were married on May 12, 1935 at Pinecastle United Methodist Church where he was the pastor. The couple recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. She was a supportive pastors wife as Dr. Calhoun served United Methodist Church appointments in NC, FL, and TX. Additionally they served two tours as missionaries to China. From 1956 through 1970, they lived in Augusta, GA, where Dr. Calhoun was president of Paine College. Frankie became well known for her abilities as a hostess for church, college, and family events. After a final appointment in Nashville, TN to establish the Black College Fund, the Calhouns retired to Waynesville, NC where they created and operated the Smoky Mountain Center for Independent Studies. In 1999, they relocated to Givens Estates. Throughout her life, Frankie was active in the United Methodist Women's organizations, serving at the local, district, conference and jurisdictional levels. She was also active in the music programs of the church in various capacities. In addition to her husband, she is survived by two sons, Frank M. Calhoun of Bryson City, NC and the Reverend Asheley M. Calhoun and his wife, Paula of Sevierville, TN; seven grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; and a number of nieces and nephews. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 24 in the Performing Arts Center at Givens Estates with Reverend Joe Fulk officiating. Interment will be at a later date in the family plot in Perry, FL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The New Chapel Fund at Givens Estates, 2360 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, NC 28803 or Paine College, 1235 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30901.

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