Martha Louise (Smith) Francis

Martha Louise Francis (Smith), age 78, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025, after a courageous battle with breast cancer. She was born in West Virginia, Martha spent most of her life in Stow and Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. She also briefly lived in Florida, Maryland, Georgia, and Washington, D.C., alongside her beloved husband, who served in the Navy.
Martha was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister who put others' needs ahead of her own. She married her high school sweetheart and remained a steadfast, loving partner until his passing in 2002. Despite this loss, she kept the family strong and united, demonstrating unwavering love and dedication.
Martha's selflessness and work ethic were unmatched. As the Director of Housekeeping at St. Joseph's Church in Cuyahoga Falls, she devoted many years to maintaining a welcoming space for the community. She was also an active member of the church, always finding ways to help others and lend a hand to those in need.
Above all, Martha was an amazing mother who gave her all to raising her children, including her daughter with special needs, with boundless love and compassion. She was a proud and loving grandmother, cherishing every moment spent with her grandkids.
Along with her parents, Martha is preceded in death by her husband, Dan and daughter Michelle Francis.
Martha is survived by her children, Dan (Diane) and Michael (Rachel), and her adored grandchildren, Dan (Christine), Matt (Marissa), Kyle, and Lucas Francis. She also leaves behind 5 sisters and many nieces and nephews.
A small, private graveside ceremony will be held with close family, followed by a celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Martha's honor to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation or the Humane Society, two causes close to her heart.