Maxine Francis (nee Brooks)

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness we announce the passing of Maxine Francis on August 18, 2024, at the age of 100 years in Tillsonburg, Ontario, formerly of Hamilton, Ontario. Maxine was born in the Red River Valley, Dominion City, Manitoba on July 13, 1924 to Harry and Francis Brooks.

Predeceased by her Husband Edward Albert (Ted) Corbeil, Son Bryan Corbeil, Husband Roy Francis, Brothers Wally and Harold Brooks, Sisters Jean McPhail, Adeline Parker and Great Granddaughter Megan Dix. She will be forever cherished in the hearts of her children Daughter Marilyn Jones (Ken) of Tillsonburg, Ontario, Son Glen Corbeil (Cyndi) of Burlington, Ontario. Being the proudest Nana added to her happy life, she added to their joy also. Granddaughter Kristi Dix (Jeff) of Woodstock, Ontario, and Grandson Kolin Jones (Erin) of London, Ontario. She was blessed to be known as G.G. and Great Nana to her Great Grandchildren Emily Dix and Liam, Sarah and Adele Jones. Also survived by nieces and nephews.

At the age of 18 years, she wrote the Government exams, was the youngest to be hired at the RCAF station, Carberry, Manitoba. She made sure the officers and soldiers were paid. Maxine met Ted who was in the RCAF in 1944 and they were married April 7, 1945 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She worked tirelessly to keep our home going through Ted’s many years of ill health. Her strength was unwavering. Maxine was employed by National Trust as head Payroll for the Ontario Branches until her retirement. Always a numbers girl she still completed her own income tax until 92 years of age. Unfortunately, Ted passed when Maxine was 55 years. She travelled to England in 1982 to find her Brooks family roots and reconnected with Roy whom she knew during the war. Long story short, Roy Francis moved to Hamilton where they were happily married for ten years. Finding her roots opened up her world to many wonderful family members who she travelled to visit with over the years. Her favourite pastime was talking on the phone. She loved connecting with all her family and friends. It was her lifeline. Maxine was a dedicated and loving Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother her most valued possession was her family. The family is one of nature’s Masterpieces and she was truly our Matriarch. She will continue to shine forever. The family wish to express their gratitude to the Nurses and PSWs at Woodingford Lodge, Tillsonburg, Ontario for her wonderful care during the past two years.

Maxine’s Celebration of Life was granted on her 100th Birthday, one month ago. She was present, talking, smiling, laughing and enjoying every minute of her special day surrounded by her loving family. Cremation has taken place. Her ashes will be laid to rest at a private family burial in Hamilton. Cresmount Funeral Home, Hamilton, Ontario, entrusted with all funeral arrangements with confidence.