Bonita (Beecher) Francis

Bonita (Bonnie) Francis 65, of Lafayette, passed away at Creasy Springs Health Campus on Sunday afternoon, June 8th, 2014, after a lengthy battle with brain cancer. Bonnie was born on May 5th, 1949 in South Bend, Indiana to parents William R. and Mary A. Beecher who proceeded her in death. She was a 1967 graduate of LaSalle High School in South Bend and later obtained a B.A. degree from Purdue University in elementary education. She continued to work towards her Master's Degree in later years.

Her marriage to Roger Francis on August 30th, 1969 in West Lafayette, Indiana continued for 45 years until her death. She was a devoted wife to her husband Roger and a loving mother to her son Daniel, daughter Jennifer and granddaughter Theresa, all residing in Lafayette. Also surviving is her daughter-in-law Shirley Jarome, and son-in-law Brent Swift, both of Lafayette.

She was the only daughter in the Beecher family with six brothers as siblings. Her oldest brother is William Beecher (wife Toni) of Ashland, Oregon, Kevin Beecher (wife Kayoko) of San Diego, California, Brian Beecher of Lafayette, and Christopher Beecher of Indianapolis. Preceding her in death were two brothers, Tim Beecher of Lafayette and Patrick Beecher of South Bend.

Bonnie loved to read novels, was an avid fan of Purdue athletics, the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers and Lafayette Jefferson athletics. Bonnie never learned to play an instrument though music was an important part of her life. She was an active member in the Jefferson High School music department for over thirty years. She was a lover of playing bridge. Her passion for playing bridge with her friends over the years brought her much joy.

A private family service will be held instead of a visitation and gravesite service. In lieu of flowers the family requests a donation be made to the Jefferson High School music department, in Bonnie's name, to be used to assist students in need who participate in the various activities in the music programs at Jefferson High School.

Simplicity Funeral Care entrusted with care. Share memories and condolences online at www.simplicity-funeralcare.com

Published by Journal & Courier on Jun. 10, 2014

08/30/2022 EJS