Frances Genevieve Rouse

Frances Genevieve Rouse, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and a devoted nursing home administrator, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, in Barberton, Ohio, after a prolonged illness. Born on February 18, 1941, in Akron, Ohio, she lit up the lives of those around her with her strength and tenacity.

Frances embarked on a meaningful career in healthcare, serving as a nursing home administrator from 1965 until her retirement in 2001. Her commitment to her work and the compassion she extended to her residents defined her professional life. Educated at St. Mary's High School, Frances further pursued her dream of helping others by completing her nursing residence in New Orleans and Atlanta, where she studied geriatrics and healthcare administration at St. Joseph's Infirmary School of Nursing, graduating in the class of 1963.

Though she was a petite woman, wearing a size 5 ring, Frances's spirit was larger than life. She had a tenacious determination that shone through, allowing her to face life’s challenges with fierce independence. One of her proudest accomplishments was adopting two children, Billy and Melissa, from San Salvador. Their adoption, which made local headlines as the first international children adopted in Summit County, was a testament to her profound devotion to motherhood. Even after the silent battles her family faced while raising Billy, who had special needs, Frances remained resilient and loving.

Frances had an incredible passion for quilting post-retirement, creating beautiful pieces that showcased her creativity and warmth. Throughout her life, she amassed several sewing machines, proving her dedication to the art. History and genealogy were her other loves; she dedicated hours to exploring her family's story and connection to the past.

In her personal life, Frances built a loving family, including her beloved son William K. Rouse, daughter Melissa Freeman, and her closest sister Catherine Naglak, alongside her baby brother Jim Felter and baby sister Margaret Yeargin. Frances was a proud aunt to many nieces and nephews, who will forever cherish the memories they made with her.

After the passing of her beloved husband, William Fredrick Rouse, in 2007, Frances found joy and companionship in her daughter, Melissa, as they lived in Charleston, South Carolina, for 15 years. About 2.5 years ago, she returned to her roots in Akron, Ohio, where she felt a profound connection to William, allowing her to stay close to his memory until her passing.

Frances is predeceased by her parents, Frances Geraldine Phillips and Kenneth Arnold Felter, and her dearly departed husband, William, with whom she shared 39 beautiful years. As well as loving siblings Mary Jo Banco and Ken Felter.

A memorial service to celebrate Frances's remarkable life will be held on January 23, 2026, at St. Francis De Sales Parish in Akron, Ohio, from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM, followed by her interment at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Seville, Ohio, at 1:45 PM.

She leaves behind a tapestry of love, strength, and indelible memories in the hearts of her family and friends. Frances Genevieve Rouse was truly a beacon of resilience and kindness, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family would like to thank Aunt Kate and cousin Mary Kate for helping with everything in this troubling time. 

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to family members Melissa Freeman, William K. Rouse, and Maya Freeman.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Adams Mason Funeral Home 330-535-9186