Elizabeth 'Betty' Amelia Francis

Betty Francis, 92, was born February 9, 1919 in Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada. Growing up with a father who was a horse trader, she developed independence and tenacity at an early age. At 14, she drove a car towing a horse trailer all over Manitoba delivering horses with her dad. She always loved to sing and studied voice becoming a popular mezzo soprano in Winnipeg, having her own radio program by the age of 22. On her 23rd birthday, she married Fred Francis. In 1952, Betty and Fred moved with their three small children to Kansas City, Missouri, where she continued her singing career becoming the choir director at Ruskin Heights Presbyterian Church for 18 years. Betty had a full life with a family which now had four children and a full time job at the Hickman Mills Bank. Customers and colleagues remember her bright smile and cheerful disposition that brought joy to all who came in contact with her. A joyous spirit was always with her. As kids we always knew where she was by the sound of her infectious laugh. In 1974, Betty and Fred moved to the Lake of the Ozarks and Betty became the choir director at the Kent Memorial Church in Sunrise Beach. After Fred died, Betty moved back to Kansas City to be closer to her children and old friends. Betty loved to travel and have new experiences and remained optimistic and inquisitive to the last day of her life. Betty passed away on March 18th, still singing and laughing and making sure to give advice to all her family… to love their lives and always be happy. She was predeceased by her husband Fred; sister Jean; brother Wellie and grandson Dustin Francis. Betty is survived by four children, Fred (Tim) Francis and wife Mary, Jane Cohen and husband Steve, Judy Cox and husband Mike, Allott Francis and wife Kim; 10 grandchildren; 13 great- grandchildren and 2 great-great- grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. In addition, mom would want us to extend special thanks to the wonderful staff at Carnegie Village in Belton, Missouri for their excellent care these past few years.
A Celebration of Life services were held Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. at the John Knox Presbyterian Kirk, 11430 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, Missouri with a visitation following service.
In lieu of flowers the family suggest that memorial contributions can be made to the Hospice Care of the Midwest.