Mauree Francis

Mauree Francis-born Mauree Johnson on August 27, 1945, in Birmingham, England-a woman whose warmth, humor, and love touched so many.
She was the middle child of three, growing up alongside her older brother Barry and younger sister Wendy. From the very beginning, she was full of life and energy, a little adventurous, a little mischievous, and always surrounded by family. She was also a bit of a tomboy, once breaking her leg playing football with the boys-a story that always showed her fearless spirit. She carried that spark with her throughout her life, bringing joy to everyone lucky enough to know her.
As a young woman, she worked as a wages clerk, where she not only built friendships but also began shaping the values of hard work, resilience, and kindness that carried throughout her life. Around this time, she married Ron Jordan, and together they welcomed her three greatest blessings-her boys: Kevin, Tony, and Paul. Becoming a mother was one of her proudest roles, and that love only grew as her family expanded.
To her grandchildren-Mauree, Samuel, Michael, Alexis, and Ashlyn-and to her great-grandchildren Savannah and Kailey, she was known simply as Nana. True to her playful nature, Nana delighted in giving the kids the noisiest toys she could find, always with a twinkle in her eye and a laugh, reminding everyone she didn't have to live with them afterward. Watching her family grow filled her with joy and pride.
In 1977, she married her beloved Ron Francis. Together, they shared nearly three decades of love, laughter, and adventure. Their journey took them from England to Paris, where they soaked in the culture, built lifelong friendships within the expat community, and made memories that they treasured forever.
In 1999, Mauree and Ron made another bold move-leaving England behind to settle in Florida and begin a new life in the U.S. They designed and built their dream home in Parrish, which became their sanctuary place filled with love, family visits, and memories that will last forever.
Life in Florida was a happy new chapter. Ron poured his energy into woodworking, turning a hobby into a business, while Mauree discovered a passion for embroidery and quilting. She created intricate, beautiful pieces, made dear friends through her craft, and poured love into her cooking and baking-her trifle will always be remembered. She and Ron opened their hearts to Sheba, their beloved dog, who brought them years of love and companionship.
In 2006, Mauree's beloved Ron passed away after nearly 30 years of marriage. Though his loss was deeply felt, Mauree showed her remarkable independence and strength. She remained in their Parrish home, determined to continue building a full and joyful life. Surrounded by family, friends, and neighbors who loved her, she carried forward with courage, grace, and her ever-present sense of humor.
She developed a deep love of cruises later in life. She looked forward to her ocean voyages, often taking trips with her sister Wendy or dear friends. Those cruises were some of her happiest times-filled with laughter, connection, and treasured memories.
What defined Mauree most wasn't just her talents, but her spirit. She was a positive light, endlessly personable, and had a rare gift for making everyone feel special. To know her was to love her. She could make friends anywhere, and she filled her life with laughter and connection. Even in difficult moments, she made light of any situation-and she was cracking jokes until the very end.
Though we will miss her deeply, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with Ron, her true companion, and that her spirit lives on in each of us-every time we share a laugh, gather as a family, or show kindness to one another.
Today we don't just mourn her passing-we celebrate a beautiful life, well-lived, and a woman deeply loved.