Mary Ellen Francis

Mary was born to Charles Hubert and Otella Kearns in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She attended Mount Mary College until she married in 1952. Prior to her marriage she worked as a fit model, and then a dental hygienist. Throughout her lifetime, Mary was a devoted servant of God whose footsteps were guided by faith and service. She served in many roles for her local parish, including as Cantor and Eucharistic Minister. She also enjoyed taking Communion to the local hospital, and praying with those most in need. She will be remembered as the strong, beautiful and determined matriarch of a large family, who was happiest when hosting her relatives and enjoying their company. Her legacy will live on in the lives she touched.

Mary is survived by her seven children, Timothy, Judith, Mary Jane, Catherine, Paul, Francis and Theresa; her nine grandchildren, Elizabeth, Joel, Christian, Kelly, Brianna, Gabriella, Howard, Max and Brenna; and by her sister, Otella; and brother, James.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, July 5 at 11 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. Burial will follow in the Bark River Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Catholic Charities Legal Network in Washington, D.C. A message of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net.

The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.