Born on March 5, 1970, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Kelly grew up in a close-knit family and developed a love for her community from a young age. After graduating from Snider High School, she attended Indiana University, where she earned a degree in Social Work. Kelly spent over 25 years working with local nonprofits, where she dedicated her career to supporting at-risk youth and advocating for those in need. Her colleagues and those she helped describe her as a beacon of hope and a source of strength for many.
Kelly was a passionate volunteer, contributing countless hours to community outreach programs, food banks, and local shelters. Her commitment to making a difference extended beyond her professional life; she was also known for her generous acts of kindness, whether it was organizing charity events, providing emotional support to friends, or simply lending a listening ear.
In her personal life, Kelly was a devoted mother to her two children, Emma and Jack. She was their biggest supporter and a source of endless love and encouragement. Kelly’s pride in her children’s achievements and her dedication to their well-being were evident to all who knew her. She also found joy in gardening, reading, and spending time outdoors, often sharing her love for nature with those around her.
Kelly is survived by her children, Emma and Jack; her mother, Linda; and her siblings, Mark (Sarah) and Jenny (Tom). She is also remembered by her many friends and the countless individuals whose lives she touched through her work and her kindness.
A memorial service to celebrate Kelly’s life will be held on Saturday, July 28, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 1126 S. Barr Street, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Friends and family are invited to gather for a time of reflection and to honor the remarkable person Kelly was.
In the wake of her passing, we remember Kelly Francis as a pillar of our community, a woman whose life was marked by compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift all who had the privilege of knowing her.