Dec.
30, 1919 - July 28, 2010SOUTH BEND - Mary Jane Francis, 90 of South Bend passed away Wednesday morning in Millers Merry Manor, New Carlisle. She was born in South Bend on December 30, 1919 to the late Harry W. and Mary (Taylor) Carlton. Also preceding her in death were a sister, Emma Carlton and brothers, Richard, Harold, and Merle Carlton. On November 26, 1949 she married Ernest W. Francis, who died in 1993. Surviving to cherish her many years are daughters, Jo Ann Francis and Cindi Francis; son, Wayne (Marta) Francis of South Bend. A grandson, Stephen (Nikki) Francis of South Bend, three great- grandchildren, Stephen Francis, Jr., Mayah and Caleb Francis; and one brother, Harry (Jane) Carlton of South Bend. Mary retired from the South Bend Community School Corp. where she drove a school bus for 18 years. She was the first lead driver for special Education students in South Bend. She graduated from the Woodrow Wilson High School and she played basketball for them. Mary belonged to the DFV German Club Auxiliary in South Bend, where she enjoyed cooking for wedding receptions held in the club. She was a lifetime member of Monson Community Church and cooked for their Turkey Suppers. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday July 31, 2010 in Monson Community Church, 24172 SR2, with Pastors Rich Siri and Timothy Aydelotte officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to Harbor Light Hospice 4330 Miami St. South Bend, IN 46614 or to Millers Merry Manor Activities Fund 220 Dunn Rd. New Carlisle, IN 46552. The Welsheimer Family Funeral Home assisted the family with Mary's wishes. E-Mail condolences may be made at www.welsheimer.com.