Francene Ford

Francene Ann Ford, a beloved wife, mother, and Nana, passed away surrounded by her loving family, on November 24, 2024, at the age of 75. She was born to Frankie and Anna Baxter on February 11, 1949. She grew up and graduated from Stephen Decatur High School in 1967. Upon graduation she pursued her LPN license and worked for St. Mary's, DMH, and Memorial Medical Center for a combined 49 years. Her love for serving left a mark on each patient she cared for.

She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Stephen Ford, and their six children: Jon (Jamie), Andrew (Lacy), Ben (Heidi), Elizabeth (Bryan), Brenae, and Corrie. Her blessings multiplied with her 13 beautiful grandchildren Zoey, Alexis, Landon, Parker, Addison, Mya, Tinlee, Collin, Caden, Wyatt, Kyrin, Landree, and Maizee.

Franny's abundant faith and giving spirit overflowed in her daily activities. You could always find her serving in children's ministry, volunteering in nursing homes, collecting and sorting donations, making food deliveries for meal trains, and giving rides to anyone in need. She has created and gifted thousands of baby blankets and many have cherished memories wrapped up in one of her famous t-shirt quilts. If not serving or quilting, you could find her in the stands cheering on any one of her precious grandchildren. Many in the surrounding area have been fortunate to enjoy a pan of her signature cinnamon rolls or a plate of chocolate chip cookies. Her compassion and selfless nature has left a lasting impression on every person she met.

In true Franny fashion, she has donated her body to science, allowing her legacy of giving and serving to live on. A celebration of life will be held at Passion Community Church in Decatur, IL, on Friday, November 29, 2024 from 9-11AM, with a memorial service to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you perform a selfless act to your local school district or homeless shelter with the thought of "What would Franny do?"