Wanda E. Francis

Wanda E. (Smietana) Francis, 92, of New Bedford passed away on May 11, 2026 peacefully at home following a long illness. She was the wife of the late Dr. James F. Francis. Born on August 6, 1933 in New Bedford, she was the daughter of the late Stanislaw and Francesca (Wojtal) Smietana.

Wanda grew up in New Bedford and graduated from New Bedford High School. After graduation, she attended Salem State College where she earned a degree in Business Education. Wanda went on to pursue a 39 year career as a business education teacher at Westport High School where she met her future husband. Wanda enjoyed trips to the casino and local restaurants, family gatherings, monthly lunches with her Westport High colleagues, and attending events and activities for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Survivors include a daughter, Lisa Wethington and her husband John of Fairhaven; two sons, Peter Francis and his wife Pamela of Taunton, and Christopher Francis of New Bedford. In addition, she leaves her grandsons, James Francis and his wife Brittni of Fairhaven, Zachary Francis of New Bedford, and their brothers Chris Gomes of Freetown and Kyle Gomes of Florida. Wanda is also survived by her grandsons Drew Wethington and his wife Meaghan of Acushnet, Blake Wethington and his wife Alexandra of Lexington, Kentucky, Jack Wethington and his fiancee Emilie Lague of Lakeville, and Evan Francis of Taunton. Wanda was blessed by five beautiful great granddaughters, Rory James, Rylee Emilia, Layla Grace, Hallie Ray, and Mariella Elise. She also leaves a brother, Thaddeus Smietana, of Attleboro as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her brother Dr. Walter Smietana and several sisters, Sophia Smietana, Josephine Delano, Emilia Foy, and Janina Bryden.

Her visitation will be Friday, May 15, 2026 9:00-10:30 a.m. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. in the Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford, MA 02745. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, New Bedford.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Yasmine, Sandra, and Annemarie for their love and care during Wanda’s final days. In addition, the family would like to thank the nurses from Community Nurse and Hospice, especially Pattie and Kim, as well as Caitie and Kim and the other members of the staff of the Oaks.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community Nurse,62 Center St., Fairhaven, MA, 02719.