Gerald “Jerry” Francis

Gerald “Jerry” Francis of Walton passed away peacefully at Huronlea Home for the Aged, surrounded by family, on Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, in his 92nd year.

 

Jerry leaves behind his beloved wife Anne (Skinner) of 67 years. He was the loving father of Paul and Cheryl, Chris, and Michael and Kathy, the cherished grandpa of Curtis (Lauren), Matthew (Megan), Celeste, Shane (Ashley), Mitchell, and Holly (Brandon) and the great-grandpa of Brielle, Bryce; Colton, Rosie; Jack, Georgia; Barret, and Camryn. 

 

Jerry was the dear brother of Teresa Ryan and brother-in-law of Betty Ryan. He was predeceased by his daughter Mary Alice (1984), his parents Lawrence and Marjorie (Reid) Ryan, his in-laws Frank and Freda (Holborn) Skinner, and his siblings and their spouses: Joan and Don McDonald, Bob and Barb Ryan, Jim Ryan, Jack and Marianna Ryan, and Nelson Ryan. Jerry will be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

 

Faith, pride and an honest day’s work were pillars by which Jerry lived his life. Working wasn’t a “job”, it was how he lived his life. It was instilled in his children to work hard and show up for the people they love. He was a friend on whom others could rely.
He leaves behind a family who will miss him every day and carry his lesson forward. Though our hearts are heavy, we are deeply grateful for the time we had. His presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

 

Though the road has ended, Jerry’s journey and legacy live on.

 

Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, Seaforth on Sunday, Feb. 1 from 2-5 p.m. Prayers will be held in the funeral home at 1:30 p.m.

 

Jerry’s funeral mass will be held at St. Ambrose Church, Brussels, on Monday, Feb. 2 at 11 a.m. Interment to take place at a later date.

 

As an expression of sympathy, the family asks that donations in Jerry’s memory be made to the Children’s Health Foundation (designate to Children’s Hospital) or Ronald McDonald House Charities Southwestern Ontario.