Frances S. Osburn

Frances S. Osburn, 83, of Columbia, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 27, 2026, after a courageous battle with illness, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on May 8, 1942, in Columbia, South Carolina, the daughter of the late Adele Sanford.

Frances was the devoted wife of 62 years to Willis Eugene Osburn, who preceded her in death on March 19, 2022. Together, they built a home filled with love, curiosity, and a shared passion for genealogy and community.

Frances was a dedicated educator who earned her doctorate in education and gave many years of distinguished service to Richland County School District 2, touching the lives of countless students and colleagues before her retirement. She was a proud member and president of the South Carolina Genealogical Society, and she channeled her deep appreciation for history, heritage, and family into a published body of work that will endure for generations.

Beyond the classroom and the written page, Frances expressed her love through the quiet art of quilting, stitching together fabric and affection in equal measure, and sharing her handcrafted gifts with those she held dear.

Above all, Frances was the heart of her family. As a devoted mother, treasured grandmother, and proud great-grandmother, she found her deepest joy in her ever-growing “brood,” nurturing each generation with unwavering love, strength, and grace. Her legacy is woven into the lives of all who knew her.

Frances is survived by her son, Wade Ryon Osburn (Margaret) of Hopkins; her daughter, Donna Elaine Osburn Branham, of West Columbia; and her daughter, Karen Lynn Kubicki (Gregory) of Lugoff. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Dustin Ray Branham, Dylan Rider Branham, Cristina Kubicki Curtis (Cameron), and Gloria Marie Kubicki (Josh). Her great-grandchildren, who will forever carry a piece of her spirit, include Ellamie Rea Branham, Leeloo Rose Branham, Dustin Ray Branham, Jr., and Ruth Adele Rutenberg Kubicki. Also surviving are her brother, Charles H. Sanford (Rosemary)of Vero Beach, Florida.

The graveside service for Mrs. Frances Osburn will be held at 2 o’clock, Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC 29229.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.