Margaret Joanne Francis

Margaret J. Francis of Raleigh, NC died on August 22, 2025, at age 82. She meant many things to those who love and miss her.

Margaret was a daughter. Margie, as she was called growing up, was born to the late Marguerite and Andrew Thornton, both educators, in 1943. She spent her childhood in Springville, PA. A graduate of East Stroudsburg University in education, Margaret also went on to earn her master's degree in education from The State University of New York at New Paltz.

Margaret was a teacher. Over the years, she taught and shaped the lives of many elementary and preschool students. She taught PreK (Fours) at Saint Andrews Presbyterian Preschool in Raleigh, NC, where her students learned everything from their colors to how to play with others to God's love for all of us. She found great joy in working with young children and creating a classroom environment uniquely suited to nurturing each child.

Margaret was a friend. She loved to shop, particularly for shoes, and catch up over a good cup of coffee or the phone with friends. An avid reader, Margaret enjoyed her book club and keeping up with the latest articles from multiple newspapers. She cared for others with her wonderful cooking, including her meatballs, strawberry jam, and gingerbread cookies.

Margaret was a beloved wife. She met her husband Gary Francis on a blind date, which turned into 58 years of wonderful marriage. Through the years, they enjoyed many adventures, such as their time living abroad in England, Spain, and Australia. They also treasured time just being together, listening to The Beatles, watching golf, cheering on the Celtics, and sharing her favorite treat dark chocolate. Together they built a family, raising two daughters and delighting in five grandchildren who called her Geesie.

In addition to her parents, Margaret was preceded in death by her brother, Richard C. Thornton.

She is survived by her loving husband, Gary; her daughters, Meghan (Tony) Amitrano and Shannon (Sean) Bird; five grandchildren, Lena, Emma Brooks, Andrew, Joseph, and Francie; sister-in-law, Rosemary Thornton; many nieces, nephews, and loving family members; and three "grandpets."

The family would like to extend special thanks to Renaissance Care Home at Brier Creek and Heartland Hospice for the care, kindness, and support they provided Margaret so well.

Margaret will especially be remembered for her generosity, thoughtfulness, and wisdom. A champion of the underdog, she cared deeply about those in need, both people and animals. She also kept a blessing box in which she counted her blessings each day. In lieu of flowers, keep her memory by contributing to a charitable organization that speaks to you, or by simply counting a blessing today.

A memorial celebration of Margaret's life will be held at a later date.

Please visit www.brightfunerals.com to share words of comfort to the family.

Bright Funeral Home is serving the Francis family.