Susan Christine Francis

Susan Christine Francis, 78, of Princeton, Texas passed away on April 17, 2026 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

She was born on January 15, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, where she also later met the love of her life, Leland. The two were married on May 14, 1975, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love, strength, and devotion.

After moving to Texas and making their home in Princeton, Susan became a beloved science teacher with Princeton ISD. She had a gift for making learning come alive. Whether it was cow eyes for dissection, pudding and powdered sugar to demonstrate plate tectonics, or box fans and tarps turned into wind tunnels, her classroom was always filled with curiosity, laughter, and hands-on discovery. She was also known for her clever “trick tests,” teaching her students not just science, but confidence and critical thinking.

Susan’s selfless and compassionate nature was felt by many throughout the community through her volunteer efforts. She was heavily involved with a non-profit organization “Project Linus”. She’s also been known to assist hurricane victims with relocation, disabled veterans at the VFW to find affordable housing and obtain favorable military discharge status. She also taught computer classes at the senior center and helped many tenants obtain a mortgage that would allow them to purchase their first home. Together with her family, she opened her heart and home to foster children, offering them stability, care, and love. Though her impact was far-reaching, Susan remained humble, never seeking recognition for the difference she made.

At home, Susan was the “rock” of the family. She had a rare ability to listen deeply and respond with both strength and tenderness, offering support through life’s most challenging and meaningful moments.

She leaves behind a husband, Leland Francis; her daughter, Jill Francis; her bonus daughter, Sarah Smith; her sister, Rosalind (Mark Bowser); her half-sister, Pauline (Dan Rocco); and a handful of nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

In honor of Susan’s strong and brave fight against cancer, the family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Texas Oncology Foundation (https://texasoncologyfoundation.org/).