It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother and wife after a short battle with cancer. Alma Marie Francis (nee Chant), a lifetime resident of La Poile, died Monday, the 18th of October 2021 at her seasonal apartment in Port aux Basques with her husband by her side. She was 80-years-old.

Alma, a homemaker and wife of a retired fisherman John Francis, could often be seen out on the rock atop a hill beside her home in La Poile, looking out the harbour to see her sons return home from a day on the water.

Alma dedicated her life to her family and homemaking. She raised her three boys: Ross, Wayne and George much of the time all on her own while her husband fished off Nova Scotia. She also prided herself for having helped raise her only grandson, Andy.

Leaving to mourn are her husband John Francis of 63 years; her sons Ross (Cathy) Francis, Wayne (Kathleen) Francis of La Poile; George (Mandy) Francis of Port aux Basques; grandchildren Tracey Trask, Krista Francis, Jennifer Callahan, Andy Francis, Nikita Keeping and Georgia Francis, as well as Sherry Savory who always called her Nan. Alma also leaves behind six great-grandchildren.

She is predeceased by her parents Nora and Raymond Chant of La Poile.

She is survived by her siblings: Alex (Eileen) Chant; Maud (Tom) Farrell; Sidney (Judy) Chant; Garland (Kay) Chant; Virginia (Ivan) Stone; and Brian (Cathy) Chant.

Also left behind are many nieces and nephews and a large number of extended family and friends in LaPoile, Burgeo, Port aux Basques and all points in between.

Many who knew her called her aunt, even in the absence of relation. Her home was always warm and the kettle was always on. She had a hug and kiss for everyone and was the friendliest and most kind soul you could ever wish to meet.

We will miss her dearly.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 20th from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at East Haven Funeral Home Inc., 57 Grand Bay Road, Port aux Basques. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 21st, at 2 p.m. from St. Paul's Anglican Church, Grand Bay-Port aux Basques officiated by Rev. Faye Coffin. Interment to follow at Hillside Haven Cemetery, Isle aux Morts Road, NL. Flowers are graciously accepted or donations in Alma's memory can be made to the family. Funeral arrangements were in the care of East Haven Funeral Home Inc, 57 Grand Bay Road, Port aux Basques, NL. info@easthavenfuneralhome.com (709)-695-2300 www.easthavenfuneralhome.com

Forever In Our Hearts