Edna Peninger Frazier

Edna Peninger Frazier, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great friend passed away peacefully on March 5, 2024, at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 11, 1927, in Kosciusko, Mississippi to William Malcolm and Molly Mary Peninger.

Visitation to honor Edna's life will take place on Friday night, March 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Rader Funeral Home. Graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 9, at 2:00 pm at Kilgore Memorial Gardens.

Edna married the love of her life, JW (Dub) Frazier, on August 3, 1948, in Vivian, LA. They began their family in Louisiana where their first daughter was born, and later settled in Kilgore in 1951 when JW began working for R.S. Martin at the Kilgore Ice House. Over the years, they were blessed with three more children.

Known for her servant's heart, Edna was well-known in the Kilgore community. She and JW opened their hearts and home to anyone in need, making everyone feel like a part of their family. Edna's true calling was evident in her gift for feeding people and forging lasting friendships. Her fried chicken, homemade biscuits, and banana pudding were legendary, and she could turn a simple meal into a feast.

Edna went by many names, reflecting the diverse roles she played in the lives of those who knew and loved her: Mom, Edna, Edna Mae, Aunt Edna Mae, EdneR Mae (a nickname lovingly given by JW all while grinning sheepishly), Maw Maw, and Granny.

A devoted Christian, Edna attended the Kilgore Church of the Nazarene. She found joy in her various jobs outside the home, including working at the Kilgore Donut Shop downtown Kilgore, cooking at the Kilgore Bowling Alley, and a particularly cherished position at Kilgore Middle School's cafeteria. Edna loved being able to watch many of her grandchildren come through the serving line and all the others who called her Maw Maw.

Edna loved adventure and was always ready to "go." One of her favorite outings was a Friday night date at Olive Garden with her granddaughter Ashley. Her greatest pride and joy were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Despite living on a fixed income, Edna ensured that each grandchild and great-grandchild received a special Christmas gift.

Edna is survived by her four children: Jo Ann Frazier Overman (Richard) of Kilgore, TX; Milton Frazier (Lisa) of La Marque, TX; Gale Frazier Smith (Phillip) of Brookston, TX; and Cheryl Frazier Hamilton (Harry) of Springtown, TX.

She is also survived by 11 grandchildren, Stacey Singleton (Jeff), Terri Singleton (Dallas), Salena Frazier Jackson (Steven), Ashley Frazier Hamilton (Randon), Ami Sprayberry Smith (Joey), Cody Sprayberry (Veronica), Dale Smith (Morgan), Jeremy Smith (Kayla), Carrisa Hamilton Clark (Michal), Michael Hamilton, Michelle Hamilton Ford (Scotty) and 24 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband, JW, grandson Brandon Scott Smith, granddaughter Heather Ann Frazier, great-granddaughter Sunny Brielle Smith, her parents, and siblings.

The family would like to express their deep gratitude to the care team of Accent Home Health and Hospice for their compassionate support during Edna's final days. Edna's memory will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love.

Memorial contributions in Edna’s name can be made to Accent Care Hospice Foundation- 2904 North 4th Street, Longview, Texas 75605