Margaretha Alphonsine (Lazarus) Francis

Margaret (Lazarus) Francis passed away on January 5, 2024, just shy of her 68 th birthday. She was born in
Maastricht, The Netherlands and was the 7 th of 10 Children. When Margaret was 2 years old, the family
immigrated to the United States, settling in Oregon. Margaret is survived by her siblings Ellie, Tony,
Frances, Al, Jeff & MaryAnne, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her
husband Billy, parents Josephine & Henry, and siblings John, Willy, and Maria.
As a young girl, Margaret was a fearless tomboy… fighting with the boys and riding off on their bikes.
She was spunky and had an outgoing personality. She was a graduate of Lincoln High School, in
Portland, and later worked as a cashier, cook, and deli manager. Her delicious recipes were highly
coveted, and shared with only a select few.
She married Billy Francis, whom she found him to be the love of her life and soulmate. Together they
loved to dance, shoot pool, and go to the beach. Margaret lost Billy to illness in 2003, and she never
remarried. Margaret lived her life to her fullest and was a lover of all animals. She enjoyed feeding birds
and loved the many cats she had throughout her life. Margaret believed she would be reunited with
loved ones in heaven.
Margaret had a lot of physical pain in her life due back issues and failed surgeries, but she put that pain
aside and always went out of her way to help others. She was a caregiver and volunteered at nursing
homes for many years. To brighten someone else’s day gave her much joy. She loved to connect with
people, share any resources she had, and bring flower to brighten others day.
Margaret had many friends, and she helped so many people. If you knew Margaret, you know that if she
was able, she would be there for you, no matter what. She was loved and will be missed by many.
Margaret will be laid to rest with her husband Billy Francis at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland,
OR. To honor Margarets wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held at this time.