Frances Thompson Sykes

Frances Thompson Sykes, 86, of Durham, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on May 7th, 2026. Born on August 18, 1939, in Warren County, North Carolina, to Marion E. “Doc” Thompson and Annie Bogue Thompson, Frances lived a life defined by deep faith, steadfast service, and an abiding love for her family and others.

Frances attended East Carolina University for two years before transferring to Durham, where she graduated from Watts Nursing School. She devoted 25 years to nursing in Durham. Driven by her faith to serve even in retirement, she earned a degree in Theology from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and spent the next 20 years as a hospice chaplain, serving the dying and their families with compassion and grace.

For 67 years, Frances and her husband Eslie lived a Christ-centered life by opening their home and giving generously of what they had. At Revolve Church in Durham, she was a trusted teacher, leader, and friend, known for being a student of the Word and grace.

She is survived by: Her husband, Eslie Cornelius Sykes, Sr.; Three sons: Eslie “E.C.” Cornelius Sykes, Jr. (Susan), Edward “Eddie” Wayne Sykes (Dawn), and Mark Thompson Sykes (Joan); Six grandchildren and a growing number of great-grandchildren; A sister, Melba Thompson Laney (Stuart).

She was preceded in death by her sister, Margie Thompson Robinson.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hudson Funeral Home, Durham, NC. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 12th, at Warren Plains Memorial Gardens in Warren Plains, NC.

In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Frances Sykes may be made to Revolve Church, 2031 West Club Boulevard, Durham, NC.