FRANCIS, Sally Mary Celina Francis

Sally (Mary Celina) Francis passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025, in her 90th year. Sally was born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, to Angus Morrison and Catherine MacNeil. She is predeceased by her two brothers, Gerry and Herbie Morrison. She was the beloved wife of William (Bill) Francis and loving mother to six children: Stewart (predeceased) (Bonnie), Bill (Susan), Angus (Claudia), Jim (Diane), Hugh, and Bernadette (Steve). Sally was a cherished grandmother to 15 grandchildren, including Hollisha, Jordan, Jesse, Nathan, William, Alexander, Katie, Cosette, Holden, Roger, Iris, Katya, Danielle, Joseph, and Monica, and a loving great-grandmother to Brynley, Addilyn, Henry, Gage, Owen, Rowan, Cole, and Leighton.

Sally and Bill met at Eaton’s store where she worked as a clerk and were married shortly thereafter. Together, they started Francis Personnel Services in Oshawa, and Sally worked tirelessly to help those in need. In response to growing homelessness, she co-founded St. Vincent’s Kitchen in Oshawa, supported by hundreds of volunteers. In 1991, they were awarded the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship by Lieutenant Governor Lincoln Alexander.

Sally’s generosity and spirit of service were valued by every community she was part of. She was an active member of her local Catholic Church and the Catholic Women’s League for over 50 years. Sally also worked with the St. Vincent de Paul Society in Grafton.

Devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Sally loved holding babies, playing road hockey with her grandchildren, and feeding anyone who entered her home. Her legacy lives on through her love for family, friends, and strangers alike. There was always room for one more plate at her table, and a moment to listen to someone who needed to talk.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, July 12th, from 9:30 to 11:00 am at St. Mary’s Church in Grafton, with a Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 am. Burial will take place at the nearby St. Mary’s Cemetery in Grafton, followed by a reception at the home of Angus and Claudia Francis (976 Cty. Rd# 27, Codrington). All are welcome to join and share stories about Sally.

If desired, memorial donations to the Northumberland Fare Share Food Bank – Cobourg Location would be appreciated by the family. Donations can be made through MacCoubrey Funeral Home.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at MacCoubrey Funeral Home.