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Kathleen Francis Obituary
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September 18, 1959 – August 19, 2025
Kathleen A. Francis, of Philadelphia, PA, was born on September 18, 1959, to John and Phyllis Parkin. She passed away on August 19, 2025.
Kathy will be remembered for her warmth, strength, and the love she shared with family and friends throughout her life. She had an infectious smile that could light up any room, and at any social gathering you would always find her in the middle of the dance floor.
She was a happily retired Dollar Tree manager in Bonita Springs, where she and her partner, Pat, loved spending their days together poolside or at the beach. Kathy was also an active and devoted member of the AA community, where she found purpose, fellowship, and joy in helping others.
She is survived by her devoted life partner, Pat Brown; her beloved children, Leonard Francis III, husband Bob; daughter Samantha Ruggiero, husband Bryn, and her cherished granddaughter, Emily Lane. Also survived by brother Jay Parkin (Pat), brother Bill Parkin, sister Elaine Speiser (Joe) and sister Maryellen Foley(the late Michael). Kathy was also a proud grand aunt to Michael, Dalton, Colin, Regan, and Kara Rose.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the T.J. Fluehr Funeral Home, 11010 Knights Road, Philadelphia, PA 19154, beginning at 10 AM. Words of Remembrance will be shared at 11:45 AM.
In honor of Kathy's fun loving personality, guests are encouraged to dress in colorful attire. Let's fill the room with beautiful colors, and happy memories of Kathy!
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.
Kathy devoted her life to service work in AA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to the Chatty Kathy Voice of Hope Scholarship Fund to help offer financial help to those getting sober. Send to Avise Wellness, Re: Chatty Kathy Voice of Hope 2288 Second Street Pike Suite 1 Newtown, PA 18940, or send a Venmo to @Leonard-Francis OR @Samantha-Ruggiero-1.
To share a memory of Kathy, please visit www.tjfluehr.com
Florists, all deliveries must be made to the funeral home on Thursday, by 3 PM.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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