Lewisburg – Mildred “Bill” Francis, 96, formerly of Kenova, WV, passed away Sunday, Aug. 13, 2023 at Greenbrier Valley Medical Center in Ronceverte.
“Bill” was born Mar. 22, 1927 in East Lynn, WV, a daughter of the late Shelby and Veva Finley Francis.
Instead of embarking on her own life, she worked tirelessly to provide for her son, mother, and sister, as well as countless nieces, nephews, and great-nieces. She led a selfless life, providing opportunities to any of us willing to work for them, asking nothing in return. She had a strong work ethic and always encouraged us to “keep at it,” which she herself never failed to do. When not working, “Bill” enjoyed quilting, sewing, crochet, and reading books.
After her mother’s death, “Bill” retired from Owens Illinois in Huntington. She then cared for her niece, Shelba, until her death in 2009. She was primary caregiver to her sister, Kathleen, until her death in 2016. In that year, at age 89, she was finally able to “retire” in Lewisburg to be with her son Eric. Not one to be idle, she remained busy doing yard work, which she loved. “Bill” always preferred staying busy outside. Her favorite part of this retirement was Saturdays with her son. “Bill” was an extraordinary woman that “kept at it” ‘til the end. She was greatly admired and will be sorely missed.
Aside from her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Jay and John Francis; sisters, Calanthe Branstetter and Kathleen Fraley; and a niece, Shelba Davis.
She is survived by her son, Eric Francis; sister, Beatrice Pratt; nephew, Steve (Diane) Fraley; niece, Janie (Larry) Forbis; nephews, Mike, Bob, and David Branstetter; great-nieces, Kathy Smith, Michelle (David) Zornes, Sarah (Jon) Tasso; great- nephew, Jason (Brandy) Fraley; and a host of other nephews and nieces. She is also survived by special friends, Evelyn McCartney, Susie Yates, and her beloved dog, Issabelle.
Graveside service was held on Thursday, Aug. 17, at Calvary Cemetery in the Richlands Community of Lewisburg where Speaker Travis Howard officiated. There was no visitation.
In lieu of flowers and in honor of “Bill’s” belief that all children deserve the opportunity to “keep at it,” the family requests donations be sent to Shriners Children’s Hospital, 110 Conn Terrace, Lexington, KY 40508 or visit @ShrinersLex to make a donation in her memory.
Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home in Lewisburg is in charge of arrangements. Please send online condolences by visiting www.WallaceandWallaceFH.com
