Josephine Marie Francis

It is with great sadness that we the family announce the passing of our beloved mom and grandmother Nanny Achum, who was well known by many on December 8, 2025 in the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney. Josephine was born in Chapel Island, Barrahead. She was the daughter of Stephen Peter and Annie Claire (Paul) Francis.

She left to mourn her son Norman (Sharon), Lisa (Chris) of New Brunswick, Elena (Kelvin) Victoria of Eskasoni and also 22 grandchildren, 48 great grandchildren and 1 great, great grandchild as well as her special godchildren Dorothy Kawalansky and Fred Getchell of Presque Isle, Maine and Joseph Francis of Eskasoni whom she cherished very much, and one surviving sibling David Francis.

She was predeceased by her parents Stephen and Annie Francis, one son William and her late sisters Catherine, Caroline, Rosemarie and Marion and also her late brothers Ryan, Norman, Daniel, Alexander, Angus, Rodrick, Jonos and Joe Allan. She also loved and missed her sons Paul and Stephen Ryan who welcome her home to heaven.

Josephine was a caregiver and babysitter to many families. She also loved being around family. She loved traveling to the States to help pick blueberries during blueberry season. She also loved going to pow-wows. She was also a basket weaver and baker.

A visitation will take place at the Gabriel Centre in Eskasoni starting on Tuesday, December 16 at 7pm and continuing until the Mass which will be held on Thursday, December 18th at 10am at Holy Family Church, Eskasoni with internment in the parish cemetery and Salité to follow. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family by visiting twcurry.com.

The family would like to thank Charlene Paul and the Doctors, nurses and staff of 3A for taking such good care of our mom and nanny during her stay at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.