Frances Jean (Shomo) Chathams

            Frances Jean Chathams, 88 of Altoona died unexpectedly Friday morning January 15, 2021 at UPMC Altoona from complications due to COVID-19.

            She was born May 15, 1932 in Buffalo Mills a daughter of the late Clarence Gamble and Ida May (Ream) Shomo. She married Ronald Dale Chathams on October 14, 1961 in Bedford County. He preceded her in death April 22, 2019.

            Surviving are three children, daughter Sandra Jane Chathams of Buffalo Mills; son Thomas Paul Chathams of Altoona; daughter Diane Joyce White (Christopher Schroth) of Altoona; grandson Dustin Chathams of Buffalo Mills; granddaughter Tarah Logsdon (Matt) of Hyndman; and three great grandchildren, Spencer, Elizabeth and Mason; a brother, William Shomo of Hyndman; two sisters, Dora Davidson (Ed) and Helen Smith (Kenneth) all of Buffalo Mills; a special niece, Linda Czartoszewski of Canal Fulton, Ohio; and numerous extended family members.

            Frances was preceded in death by a brother, Jack Shomo and a sister, Hazel Tate. 

            Mrs. Chathams was a member of Second Avenue United Methodist Church, Altoona.

            She was a 1951 graduate of Schellsburg-Napier High School.

            Fran was a U.S. Air Force veteran serving during the Korean War attaining the rank of Airman First Class.

            She retired as a transportation aide from Lindsey Bus Lines with over ten years’ service. She was previously employed as an operator for United Telephone.

            She was a 40-year member, Lieutenant Colonel and Past Commander with Squadron 1504, Civil Air Patrol and a life member and treasurer of the Air Force Association.

            Frances enjoyed working in her garden.

            A private viewing and funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family with Pastor Brian Sandell officiating. Interment will be made at Blair Memorial Park, Bellwood.

            In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations please be made to the Air Force Association, 715 Logan Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602 or to the Civil Air Patrol, 313 Spruce Street, Altoona, PA 16602.

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