Clara M Francis

Clara Marie Francis, a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and devoted friend, peacefully transitioned from this world on August 24, 2023. A memorial service honoring her life will be on Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Piersall Funeral Directors, 733 Butternut Street.

Born on November 23, 1927, in California, Missouri, to Albert and Pearl Wetzig, Clara led a life filled with grace and unwavering resilience. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved her.  Clara’s presence brought warmth and comfort to those around her.  She taught us the importance of cherishing every moment and finding beauty in even the smallest gestures.

Clara was an extraordinary woman who found joy in the simplest of things, like playing pot-ball with her grandson David, and school with her granddaughter Carra.  With her gentle nature and genuine smile, she touched the lives of everyone around her. Her nurturing spirit was evident in every aspect of her life, especially in her role as a mother to her daughter, Joyce Doyle. Clara's unconditional love and support were constant sources of strength for her family.

Clara graduated from California High School in 1945 and went to work for California Manufacturing Company making uniforms for World War II service personnel.  She married in 1947 to Neal L. Francis upon his return from the war.  After relocating to Abilene, Clara attended business college to become a bookkeeper.

Throughout her career, Clara's talents as a bookkeeper and secretary were highly valued.  She helped with the day-to-day operations at the old Ellis L. Ganey Peanut Company as well as the Ganey/Freeman Company, and the Wollert Seed Company, until they all closed.  Then she started a career with Hendrick Medical Center, first as the coordinator of the Family Practice Residence Program under Dr. Porterfield, Dr. BJ Estes, Dr. Charles Sinclair and Dr. Dell McKnight, and then as the secretary for the Staff Development and Education program under Laurie Lott.  Clara's commitment to excellence and her unwavering work ethic served as an inspiration to all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with her.  After her retirement from Hendrick, Clara enjoyed the role of grandmother and caretaker for her grandchildren.

Clara was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Paul Wetzig, Alonzo Leslie Wetzig and Charles Robert Wetzig, and niece Debbie Kay.  She is survived by her sister Ruby Wetzig Kay of Centertown, Missouri; daughter Joyce Doyle and husband Jimmy of Abilene; grandchildren Carra Lambert and husband Charles of Fort Worth and David Doyle of Burton, Texas; nephews Roger Kay and wife Paula of California, Missouri and Terry Wetzig and wife Debbie of McGirk, Missouri and other great nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Hendrick Hospice Care.

Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.pbfuneraldirectors.com.