Knoxville TN, October 16, 2025
News Summary
A touching moment occurred in Knoxville when 98-year-old Frances received a surprise visit from the University of Tennessee pep squad and mascot. This heartfelt gesture was in acknowledgment of her unwavering support for the Vols, showcasing her deep ties to the university after decades of dedication. Frances, who held season tickets until age 85 and worked for 31 years at the university, exemplifies the lasting bonds within the UT community. The event was organized by the YOLO Foundation to honor Frances’s contributions and celebrate the spirit of community.
KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE
A 98-year-old woman named Frances received a surprise visit from the University of Tennessee pep squad on Tuesday. The visit was a gesture of gratitude for her long-standing volunteer spirit and unwavering support for the university’s athletics. Frances has been a devoted supporter of UT sports for decades, attending both football and basketball games since her high school years.
Up until the age of 85, Frances held season tickets to UT games, demonstrating her passion for the Volunteers, widely known as the Vols. Her involvement didn’t stop there. Frances dedicated 31 years of her career to the University of Tennessee, working in the agriculture department before retiring. This lifelong commitment not only highlights her love for the Vols but also showcases her deep ties to the university community.
The meaningful event was facilitated by the YOLO Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making the dreams of older adults come true. The surprise not only included the enthusiastic members of the UT pep squad but also featured the university’s beloved mascot, Smokey. Their visit served as a heartfelt thank you to Frances for her dedication and support throughout the years.
In a community where college sports play a significant role in local culture and pride, Frances’s story exemplifies the enduring connection between the university and its supporters. Her commitment to the Volunteers has fostered a sense of community spirit that resonates with many. Frances’s legacy as a devoted fan and member of the university’s family serves as an inspiration for both young and old alike.
Background Context
The University of Tennessee, home to the Volunteers, has a rich history of sports excellence. With dedicated fans like Frances, supporting teams through thick and thin for many decades, the tradition of loyalty to the UT athletics continues to thrive. The university has cultivated a vibrant sporting culture, drawing in thousands of attendees to games and creating long-lasting bonds among its supporters.
The YOLO Foundation’s mission emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the contributions of older adults in communities, working to turn their aspirations into reality. Through events like the one honoring Frances, the foundation helps create memorable experiences for seniors who have left a lasting impact on their communities.
Conclusion
Frances’s story stands as a heartening reminder that age does not diminish one’s ability to contribute to society. Her passion for the University of Tennessee and its sports exemplifies how a single individual’s support can positively influence an entire community.
FAQ Section
Who is Frances?
Frances is a 98-year-old woman who has been a devoted supporter of the University of Tennessee sports.
What event took place with Frances on Tuesday?
Frances received a surprise visit from the University of Tennessee pep squad as a gesture of gratitude for her volunteer spirit.
How long has Frances supported UT sports?
Frances has been attending UT football and basketball games since high school.
What role did Frances have at the University of Tennessee?
Frances worked in the agriculture department at the University of Tennessee for 31 years before retiring.
How was the surprise event made possible?
The event was made possible through the YOLO Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps fulfill the dreams of older adults.
Who participated in the surprise event for Frances?
The UT pep squad and the university’s mascot, Smokey, participated in the surprise event to thank Frances.
What does Frances’s dedication represent?
Frances’s dedication exemplifies a lifelong commitment to her community and the university.
Key Features of Frances’s Commitment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 98 years old |
| University Association | University of Tennessee |
| Years of Support | Since high school |
| Work Experience | 31 years at the agriculture department |
| Season Tickets Held Until | Age 85 |
| Event Facilitator | YOLO Foundation |
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Additional Resources
- WBIR: 98-Year-Old Woman Celebrated for Volunteer Spirit
- ESPN: Volunteer Life – Chris Lofton’s Incredible Story
- Rocky Top Talk: Tennessee Basketball Senior Day Details
- New York Times: Tennessee Football – Nico Iamaleava’s Transfer Holdout
- UT Sports: Vols Cruise to Win
- Wikipedia: University of Tennessee
- Google Search: University of Tennessee sports
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of Tennessee
- Google News: University of Tennessee
- Google Scholar: University of Tennessee
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
