Donna Lee Francis

Donna Lee Francis, age 81 years, a resident of Goreville, Illinois, passed away Thursday evening, June 27, 2024, at 6:03 P.M. at the Hillview Senior Living and Rehabilitation Center in Vienna. Donna was born March 10, 1943 in Harvey, Illinois. She was the second of three children born to Clifford and Margaret (Rule) Curl. On April 18, 1993, Donna was united in marriage to Aubrey Francis, Sr. at the Taylor United Methodist Church. He preceded her in death on December 16, 2018. Donna is survived by: her daughters – Tami Taylor, Angie Pritchett, and JoAnne (Eric) Goins; stepsons – Aubrey (Sherry) Francis, Jr. and Kenny Francis; 4 grandchildren – Lexi (Jeff) Connor and their son Kaiden, Tyler (Morgan) Pritchett, Raeghan Goins and Macy Goins; several step grandchildren and step great grandchildren; a sister – Melissa (Terry) Mitchell; a niece and nephew – Katie and Kyle. In addition to her parents and husband, Donna was preceded in death by: a stepson – Sam Francis; and a brother – Ronald Curl. Donna was a graduate of Manteno High School. She also received training as a keyboard punch operator at the I.B.M. (International Business Machines) training center in Chicago. Donna was a homemaker and enjoyed reading and sewing. She was an avid gardener, raising both vegetables and flowers. She is fondly remembered as a wonderful cook and baker. Donna’s homemade apple dumplings and her blackberry jelly were special family favorites. Donna was of the Christian faith and was a member of the Taylor United Methodist Church. A private inurnment will be held at Busby Chapel Cemetery at Goreville, Illinois. Memorials may be made to Residential Home Health & Hospice, 104 Airway Drive, Suite # 1, Marion, Illinois 62959. The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff of Hillview Senior Living and Rehabilitation in Vienna for the exceptional care provided to Donna during her illness. A special word of thanks to Eliza Blanchard, Lanesha Board, and Hannah & Allie Sauerbrunn for going above and beyond the call of duty to make Donna as comfortable as possible. Your tender care, love and thoughtfulness has meant so very much. Arrangements have been entrusted to Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna.

Donna Lee Francis

March 10, 1943 - June 27, 2024