Candace Lee French, born August 17, 1956, much loved wife, mother, sister and friend, passed away January 13, 2012.
Candace attended Hillcrest High School and was active in Hillcrest Highlanders and the orchestra. She received her Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Music Education from Missouri State University.
Candace taught vocal music for 28 years at Willard Jr. High School and then became Choral Music assistant at Willard High School. At various times she was a member of Tent Theater and The Little Theater Orchestra and was most recently accompanist for The Boys Choir of Springfield.
One of her favorite positions was as Music Director for Central Christian Church, particularly directing the choir.
She was preceded in death by her infant son Robert; her parents Ronald and Fern Affolter; and her brother Grady Affolter.
She is survived by her husband Everett French of Willard; Two sons Gregory French of Springfield and Geoffrey French of Willard; a step-daughter Laura Mayfield and her husband Elton of Olathe, KS.; Grandchildren Jacob and Audrey Mayfield of Olathe, KS.; brother-in-law Robert French and his wife Laura of Dove Canyon, CA.; niece Sonja French and her daughter Chloe of El Segundo, CA.; a sister Rhonda Affolter of Springfield, MO.; aunts, uncles, cousins and many loving friends and students.
Her greatest joy in her life was being mother to her sons Gregory and Geoffrey.
She derived great pleasure from teaching. accompanying, and encouraging students and watching them shine.
Candace touched many people during her life through her music, her grace and her sweet spirit.
In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to Central Christian Church in Springfield, MO. or the charity of your choice.
A private family graveside service will be at 10:00 A.M. Monday, January 16, 2012 in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens. Memorial Services will follow at 11:00 A.M. at Central Christian Church in Springfield, Mo with a visitation following the