Mary Francis was born on May 10th, 1941 in Washington, DC to Harold David Francis and Elizabeth Mary Gatlin, who raised her with love, strength, and unwavering support. The eldest of seven children, Janet (Seta) Viola Francis, David (Butch) Harold Francis, Barbara Jean Francis, Claude Wendell Francis, Sarah Marie Francis, Leslie (Moonay) Howard Francis, she displayed a vibrant spirit, a kind heart, and a natural ability to bring joy to those around her.

Mary was the first in her family to graduate college. She graduated from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst College (MS). Mary went on to have a career spanning 20 plus years with UDC where she won an award for meritorious service by then Mayor Sharon Pratt Kelly. Mary was highly educated and world traveled. Traveling all across the country and various parts of the world. After an accomplished career, Mary retired in 1997.

Beyond her professional achievements, Mary was a great lover of music, from Doo Wop to Motown. She was also a huge fan of Go-Go legend Chuck Brown. You could always find her at a music festival or outdoor concert. Mary loved to go shopping, gardening, or watching "the stories" with her sisters. She was a true die hard fan of all the DC sports teams, especially the Washington Commanders (Redskins)' like her brothers. Mary's favorite holiday was Christmas, and she ensured everyone in the family had a gift on that day. She embraced every experience with enthusiasm and love.

More than anything, Mary has been the matriarch of the Francis family. Mary has held every child born into the Francis family for four generations, starting with her sister Janet. Mary was devoted to her family and friends. She loved spending time with her family, whether babysitting, attending graduations, eating crabs, playing cards or taking family cruises. She cherished her relationships, especially her close bond with her nephews Raymond (RayRay) Francis, and Corey Francis; she was a source of strength, laughter, and unwavering support to everyone in the family. She is survived by her brother Leslie Francis and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Elizabeth, and her siblings, Janet, David, Barbara,Claude,and Sarah, whom we take comfort in knowing welcomed her with open arms. Though the pain of her loss is overwhelming, we find solace in the memories

she left behind. Her spirit will live on in every shared story, every echo of laughter, and every act of love inspired by her example. We will forever carry her in our hearts.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Cedar Hill Funeral Home located at 4111 Pennsylvania Ave, Suitland, MD 20746, the family will receive friends from 10:00 am to 11:00 am with service to follow.