Francis Jean Dale

Francis Dale, 93, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 7, 1932, in West Dumas, Arkansas, Francis was the beloved daughter of Hules Dale and Tuckcora Prichett.

Francis was fondly referred to as ‘Too Sweet’ in her younger years. Francis acquired her play name from the caring that she showed others. Francis has been a true missionary to many, many, of the physically ill. Her nursing career spans 50+ years. The kindness and compassion that she showed, along with the medical training that she implemented with the utmost integrity, made her a frequently sought after caregiver.

Affectionately known to many as “Big Mama,” Francis was a woman of quiet strength, deep devotion, and unwavering love for her family. She treasured her loved ones above all else and took great joy in gathering them together, often sharing cherished stories of her childhood growing up on a farm—stories that reflected her humble beginnings, strong values, and enduring faith in hard work and family.

An exceptional cook with a true passion for cooking, Francis was known far and wide for her treasured family recipes. Big Mama’s Sunday dinners were legendary—meals prepared with love, intention, and a generous heart. Food was one of the many ways she expressed her love, and her kitchen was always a place of warmth, laughter, and connection.

She was preceded in death by her son, Otis Spring, Kansas City MO.

Francis is survived by her beloved children: Stella Nabors (Houston, TX), Donald Spring (Houston, TX), Debrah Parramore (Houston, TX), Diane Baker (Houston, TX), and Patricia Cardinal (Houston, TX); along with 25 grandchildren, a host of great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and close friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Francis Dale was a woman of faith whose life reflected quiet obedience, service, and love. She trusted God through every season and lived with the assurance that her life was held in His hands. As Scripture reminds us, “Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord” (Matthew 25:21). Francis attended church regularly. She loved her church family and they loved her in return. Prayer and fasting were part of her regularly practiced Christian disciplines.

Though we grieve her earthly passing, we rejoice in the promise that she is now at peace, resting in the presence of the Lord she served so faithfully. Her legacy of love, care, and devotion continues through her family and all whose lives she touched. We take comfort in knowing that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord, and that we will see her again.

Until that glorious reunion, Big Mama’s faith, wisdom, and love will remain forever etched in our hearts.