Linda Francisco

Linda Francisco, 80, passed away on January 3, 2025 at Valley View Village.

Linda was born on March 24, 1944 to Bertha and Harold Smith. She was the third of four beloved daughters. She grew up in Des Moines, Iowa and attended Lincoln High School, graduating in 1962. For a time, she worked as a buyer and a trainer at Younkers, a position which she enjoyed greatly and one which influenced her ample collection of purses and watches.

In 1962, Linda met a handsome young man, Russell Francisco, who stole her heart. Linda and Russell were married on June 22, 1963 at the Fort Des Moines Presbyterian Church. In 1964, they had their first son, Gregory, who was followed shortly after by Marc in 1967 and Todd in 1970. For the time, their family was complete. Her passions and interests were family, faith and fabric arts. She was also devoted to her many pets.

Linda not only valued education but was an active participant. She served as a Boy Scout Den Mother, taught Sunday School for decades, and pursued her own interests by constantly reading. She had enough bookshelves to qualify as owning a library, especially considering how willing she always was to loan out books to friends and family.

In 1993, Linda became a grandmother for the first time to Kathryn. She embraced this new title with delight and aplomb. This attitude was fortuitous, as this first grandchild was followed in quick succession by four more over the next four years, (Meredith, Austin, Brandon and Rachel). She was an amazing grandmother.

It is tempting to describe Linda according to the roles she held in others’ lives—a loyal daughter and sister, a devoted wife, a loving mother and grandmother, and a true friend—because these were profoundly, pervasively, and unflinchingly true. However, to say only that without emphasizing the facts of her nature that existed in every action, word, and prayer she had for herself and others would be a disservice to not only her but those of us who knew and love her.

For everyone who knew her, Linda was a force of nature; a fact of life. She was guided unfailingly by her faith and love for God and Jesus. She frequently used her “Big Bible” to safekeep documents of personal importance. She gave many of her grandchildren their first Bibles, guided many children through some of the more obscure stories of the Old Testament, and never failed to “make a joyful noise” singing hymns at home and at church.

Linda is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Russell; sons, Gregory (Barb) Francisco; Marc Francisco; Todd (Laura) Francisco; as well as her treasured grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her dear friend, Mary VanBaale, whom she dearly loved.

Preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Bertha Smith; sisters, JoAnn, Janet and Peggy; as well as her beloved cousin, Lois. Though her absence is felt profoundly, we are comforted by the love that we know embraced her upon their reunion.

The family will greet friends Sunday, January 12, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street. Linda will be laid to rest on Monday, January 13th at 11:00 a.m. at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Valley View Village c/o the Memory Wing or Hospice of the Midwest in loving memory of Linda.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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