I thought if I waited it would be easier, but it is never easy to write  about a loss of a loved one.   I did not know Francine that well, but knew so well how much of a beautiful person she was.  She had such a warm and caring heart.  My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.  

Nana,
They say time heals all wounds, but obviously not enough time has passed yet for that.  Losing you has been so difficult.  I think of you every day and wish I could just lay with you and talk to you.  You were such a good listener.  You listened with an open mind and an open heart.  You were never judgmental.  Whenever I was upset and just needed to get away, I could go to your house and know I would be welcomed, no matter the time.  You would always say I could stay as long as I wanted. I would feel so much better talking to you.  I could really use one of those talks right now.  
I feel so fortunate to have gotten to spend as much time with you as I did, even though it will never feel like enough.  On the day you passed away, there was no warning that you'd be gone in just a few short hours.  I’m so happy I had a chance to ask you those questions for Pampa’s crossword puzzle and that the last words you said to me, in your sweet voice that I hope never fades in my mind, “I love you too”. 
Even though you’re gone, I like to think that all of these coincidental things that have happened recently are you, letting me know that you’re still here.  I had such a vivid dream about you on the morning of September 10th.  We were all at your house for family night dinner and we were celebrating another birthday and you were there.  You looked so beautiful.  You were in a red dress and when I felt your hand, it felt so soft and real.  Everyone knew that you had passed away but we were given one more day to be with you. So, I held your hand and said “you don’t have to go, you could stay” as tears fell down my face.  You just looked up at me and smiled.  You didn’t have to say a word, I knew you had to go back.  I woke up right after that, crying, and I was so cold.  It felt so real.  I hope it was really you, letting us know that you’re okay, and that we'll see you again. Please keep visiting as often as you'd like. I love and miss you so much. 

I thought by waiting it would get easier to write something, but no amount of time makes any of this easier.
We all knew how much Dad took care of you all these years, but I don’t think any of us realized just how much you took care of him as well. No matter how much we want to be there for Dad, no one can ever fill your shoes.
I miss spending time with you and talking with you. I feel cheated out of the years I thought I still had with you. There is an ache in my heart that I know Dad, Danielle, and Charles are all feeling too. You were so special and you touched so many hearts, I doubt you even knew the extent. Your loss is by far the hardest thing I’ve ever been through and my heart breaks for you every day. Please stay with me, I miss you so much and I don’t want to forget a thing about you.
You’ll be in my heart now & forever, I love you Mom❤️

Dear Roland & Family,

I just watched the video tribute to Francine. What wonderful memories you all share. We've lived next door to you for over 22 years & had the privilege of your friendship, warmth & generosity. Francine was a special lady. Much has already been written about her incredible gift of cooking but I too have memories to share: The years you have stored the extra turkeys in our freezer - Francine always wanted to make sure there was enough food for everybody; Francine teaching me, Nancy & Angela how to make the chicken enchiladas just the right way and all of us sharing Chinese food from Bejing. But there are other memories too: her fondness for kitties - was there a cat she ever met that she didn't like?  Or was there ever a cat that didn't like her?  Her Family...the line-up of cars on Sundays...almost every Sunday for the last 22 years the devotion of family members coming together to share a meal is/was an inspiration to us all.  We vicariously lived with your family on those Sundays when the laughter floated over the wall and we could hear you all cheering on the Diamondbacks or the Cardinals or possibly just one another in celebration of something or other. I had the privilege of sitting with Francine one night and while Roland was busy we shared a good laugh about his impatience with odds and ends but never with the care of his precious wife, Francine.  Roland was the most devoted husband and caregiver over the years. We know you are lost Roland & will be without your rock, your guide, your forever love by your side,  We hope you don't lose your way home and in times of great sorrow you will feel the love we feel for you - we are just next door. Follow the sound of the barking dogs or Ronnie when he gets out!  And, know that Francine may be physically gone, but she is never that far away. Just listen to the beating of your heart and she is right there. May you and your family find peace in your healing process.   Nancy, Lorree, & Angela. 

My Dearest Francine,
You were my wife, my love, my life.  From the first time I saw your beautiful face, I knew I wanted you in my life.  On little more than faith, you left everything behind and moved from Canada to the States to start a family with me.  We were so good together.  All of the memories we made over the years, I will cherish forever.   You were my guidance in every way.  You would let me know what was on the agenda and that is how we planned our day.  We started a tradition of family night over 20 years ago which would have never happened without you.  You were truly the glue that held our family together and the reason we saw everybody as often as we did.  You were never a burden my love, it was my privilege to take care of you.  I am so lost.  I never planned to be here without you.  It's been 2 weeks since your passing and I'm still struggling to find the words to say.  I have faith that I will see you again but for now, I will hold you in my heart until I can hold you in my arms. 
Your loving husband of 52 wonderful years, Roland

We are lucky to have known Francine since the seventies. She and Karen were best of friends. We played cards, bowled and went to dinner often, or just talked all night. Francine was always a happy person and fun to be with. When Francine and Roland moved to Phoenix we went to dinner one last time in Monroe and after Francine gave Karen a parting gift of two kittens, Martha and George.  That turned us into lifetime cat people. We are so far away and hadn’t seen each other until August of 2014 when on vacation. Our vacation started in Phoenix and we were lucky enough to visit Francine and Roland and spend one more evening together. She will truly be missed! Love you Francine. Karen and Greg Stepeck 


It has taken me a long time to put into words exactly what to say. There have been mistakes that I have made in my life that now, I look back and regret. I wish I would have stood and shared this with you at your funeral, and it will be something I regret not having done when given the chance. One thing I don’t regret is having been there with you at our last Sunday dinner together. While it took my moms reminders of the importance of family time to get me there, I will never be able to thank her enough for getting me there to be with you. 
Growing up you were my end of busy Wednesday’s and Sunday’s. It seemed so normal, like something that every family does. Yet when I would tell my friends that I couldn’t hang out on those nights due to family dinners they thought I was crazy. Looked at me like what kind of family does family dinners together that often or at all. Our gatherings were so big and just kept getting bigger and bigger every time. And you never turned anyone away. You always made newbies feel like life long friends and family. Looking back at it, I regret having taken those dinners for granted. I would do anything to have one more whole family dinner with you and everyone we love. 
I’m proud to be apart of this crazy family that you built, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Thank you for being such a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother. You always had a reason to be negative and have hatred, but you never were. You were the positive light in everyone’s lives, and you will be for the rest of time. I love you, there won’t be a day that I won’t miss you and think of the wonderful times we had together. 
Toujours dans nos coeurs.

To nana, 
First and foremost thank you for welcoming me into your home and into your family. I may only have two years with this family, but from the first time I met you, you made me feel like lifelong family. Thank you for always being the kindest soul, and lighting up a room with your love and laughter. Thank you for giving me the gift of your grandson and his love. I would like to make you a promise. I promise to love and cherish every moment with Dylan for the rest of my life. I will fight with him and for him until he tells me to do otherwise. I will do everything in my power to ensure that he is loved for the rest of his days. We love you, we miss you, and no matter how long has passed we will remember you and your beautiful spirit until the end of time.
 Toujours et à jamais.

Our dear Roland,

It was such a beautiful service today plus being with you,  your family and friends afterwards at your home.  As we told you, even though it was hard for you to talk about Francine's passing at the funeral, we and others I'm sure, appreciated your heart-felt memories of your wonderful wife of 52 years. It's been many years since we were in your home in Tempe, and we enjoyed Francine very much and appreciated her hospitality and warm welcome.  Roland, we're so happy you have a big family who will "keep an eye on you"! It may feel lonely in your home without Francine, but you now can leave anytime you want to go see your family. May God Bless You and keep you healthy so you can enjoy the rest of your life.

With love and hugs,
Sharon & Tom

I first met Francine in 1992. I was attending college at NAU with her beautiful daughter Danielle. Francine was a fabulous cook and homemaker. She always knew the answer to any cooking question. I remember eating her Clam Shell Appetizers and  “Better Than Sex Cake” Delicious!
Francine lived with MS for many years. I believe that there is a special place in heaven for those who endure such suffering.
Rest In Peace Francine,
Allyson Cunningham-Williams 



In Dec., 1976 my two eldest son's were performing in a school Christmas Concert.
As we were watching the concert my late (former) husband and I were eating popcorn.  Suddenly from behind our seats came a hand and helped himself to our popcorn. Needs to say we turned around to see a man (who's hand it was stealing our popcorn) and a lovely blonde haired woman.  Of course we laughed and began to chat, exchanged pleasantries, then we were on our way.
The very next evening we attended a civic groups Christmas party  and there were the couple we had just met the previous night.
That was no coincidence, thus began a 43 year old friendship.
That still produces a deeply rooted sincere love.
My lovely blonde-haired friend (sister in Christ Jesus) is Francine. We lived in a rural small town community together.  Our friendship continued to grow and flourish throughout the decades.
The tea kettle was always on for me in the Lessard kitchen.
Francine was always prepared to serve a meal along with a yummy desert!
We spent Thanksgiving holidays together, shared many outings, and never without tremendous laughter!
Her heart, her kindness, her sincerity, her love will never loose there glow, just as the memories of Francine will live in my heart and mind forever.
We shared the good times and embraced each other during our sorrowful times.
We were always prepared to lift one another up, no matter the circumstances.
My mind will always be crowded with lifelong, highly cherished moments with my beloved sister.
I am reminded of the words of Shakespeare:
"How sweet the uses of adversity which, like the toad, ugly and venomous, 
Wears yet a precious jewel in its head."
We must pluck advantage from this disadvantage, snatch victory from this seeming defeat.
Francine's life was a triumph over adversity, and Francine was the victor.
Today, I posit, we celebrate a victory.
Sleep now, my beloved friend and sister.
I love you,
Always, Maggie 

It is with the upmost respect and most sincere thoughts that my memories of Francine are because of her beautiful daughter that I call my friend and sister.   I met Francine the first time as we were rolling out of town to go camping 4 years ago.  After this, we were blessed to attend the family dinners, where Francine always smiled and just looked around at her whole family as they talked, laughed, ate, and just made wonderful memories with each other.  You don’t often have these times any more and to witness this because of the woman Francine was, by making her family first priority, is a blessing and an honor.   I of course will miss seeing her beautiful smile but I know that my family and I were blessed enough to have seen it first hand.  Her quiche is something that I will forever be grateful for eating too.  She was so sweet to have made them for me :). Thank you Danielle for allowing me and my family to know her and to know you.  We are better because of her. 

I worked with Danielle for many years, but never had the pleasure of meeting you. The reflection of the children you raised says exactly what kind of mother you were. Danielle is one of the most caring, compassionate people I have ever met.  Rest peacefully and may God bless your entire family. 

Amie enfance de Francine allait manger du gâteau chocolat à sa fête souvenir inoubliable,sympathie à toute la famille.  Sal.valleyfield que.

I have no words to describe this amazing wonderful sweet loving caring mother because she’s like a mother to me even though I come to give her shower 3x a week, she never l said never for a moment feel sorry for herself always in a good mood she tells me wonderful stories of her family and I know she adores you all very much she always makes me welcoming every time I come there she always have kind words to say me offer me if I want to eat some food. Honestly I’m still in shock when I heard she passed I will forever miss her. My condolences to you all. Is my privilege to be able to take care of her and to be part of your family. She will be missed 💐

From our first meeting with  Francine when our son Scott married Danielle we felt welcomed in her home and looked forward to time spent with her. She was always so kind with nothing but sweet and positive thoughts and words for everyone. The MS she endured did not dampen her upbeat attitude and enthusiasm for cooking and entertaining. God bless you Francine, enjoy your rest. 

My Dearest Friend Francine:

"A friend loves at all times."  This is you, Francine.  I remember the first time I met you and Roland and your family.  It was in the fall of 1974 at your home in Fountain Valley, CA.  Our hearts connected and we became amazing friends.  We shared the depth of our hearts.  We never shared an indifference of any kind during these 45 years.  We never lost touch.  We didn't get together as often as I would have liked, but we always held our endearing friendship for each other.  You were such an encourager.  You listened and always gave such loving advice.  There were times in both of our lives that we, at different times, walked through the fires of life.  We spoke always of the lessons learned in those moments and treasured those lessons as we walked forward.  We became stronger and wiser.  Look at our children and grandchildren.  As our family generations continue, the circle of love goes round.  As you live on in heaven, you will always live on in my heart.

Roland, Michelle, Danielle and Charles:  Your wife and mother is just a pilgrim passing through, just like the rest of us are as we live on in this world we call 'Earth'.  I know your hearts are heavy at this time.  No one can explain the grief you all are experiencing at this moment.  I believe you're all in a place, where joy and sorrow meet.  Sorrow ... the physical body is no longer.  Joy ... Francine is now dancing once again, but on streets of gold, and resting in the loving arms of her Creator.  Please take comfort in knowing that our family's thoughts and prayers are fervent and without ceasing as you walk through this season of the loss of your beloved wife and mother and grandmother, Francine!  And PS ... Francine, you were the best 'peach smash' maker, as well as the stuffed clams that melted in your mouth.  But most of all, you were the 'best' friend I've ever had!  God bless and keep all of you in His Loving Care!

Respectfully ~ Becky & Doug Ingram, Candace, Nic, Jori

Sending love and prayers during this difficult time to all family and friends. We met Francine and Roland when we built houses in the same neighborhood back in 1997.  We loved nothing more than stopping over for a cup of coffee and to sample a new recipe.  Many of those recipes were shared and we still make them today! 
Francine was the sweetest person and we were lucky to have met her. The memory of Francine will remain with us forever.


My heartfelt condolences to the Lessard Family.  Francine and Roland welcomed me into their home with their warm, loving embrace as they had so many.  Francine and I had many hours of conversation, she always embodied a demeanor of empathy, compassion, love and support.  Francine was a great listener.  Thank you Francine for leaving me a better person and the world a better place; your legacy and spirit will forever live.  
Love, 
Chris Buhrmann

À toute la famille Mercier Lessard,

J'ai appris récemment la triste nouvelle et je veux vous communiquer mes plus sincères condoléances, en vous souhaitant de traverser cette terrible épreuve avec solidarité et courage, comme Francine en a fait preuve une grande partie de sa vie. C'est ce qu'elle aurait voulu, je pense!

Avec toute ma solidarité et mon affection, son cousin de Valleyfield, Roger Leduc

My dearest Roland,
You were so good hearted to commit your faithful caring of your wife Francine.
I am truly sorry for your loss. I am sure she thanked you very much for everything.
We will always think of Francine. We all love you and support you.
My condolences to you and your family.
I love you, my dearest brother.
Claudette and family

The Mercier Association of America offers you their deepest condolences, following the death of Francine Mercier Lessard
Truly.

Mario Mercier

www.famillesmercier.org


The Mercier Association of America offers you their deepest condolences, following the death
of Francine MercierLessard
Truly.

Mario Mercier

www.famillesmercier.org


Mom, I can’t express how sad I am without you here...I know your life wasn’t easy fighting MS as long as you did. You faced your disease like a champ! Your new found freedom is my only consolation. 
Our fall baking was just around the corner, I will continue our tradition in your honor! I am so grateful that I inherited your love for cooking and baking. I will miss how easy it was to just call you and get advise or instructions on whatever meal or dessert I was in the middle of preparing. 
Mom, you were the glue that held our family together! You always made sure dad prepared enough food for everyone, and that everyone felt welcomed into your home. You also made sure everyone’s birthday was properly celebrated by making them their favorite cake. Holidays were always busy with a house full of people. You wouldn’t allow anyone to be alone for the holidays, always extending invitation to friends of family members. 
Mom, our world is a little dimmer without your shining light. You were the best mom anyone could ever ask for! I love you so much! I look forward to reuniting with you again someday. 

Such a sweet lady! Always kept a positive attitude even after having hard days. Love you and your family Francine! You will be greatly missed. 


Dear Francine, I will miss you and our wonderful dinners we had every week for the last 25 years. You were always so welcoming to anyone I wanted to invite to your home, and always made them feel like they were part of the family. I would always count on you when I had a question about some meal I was preparing at home. You were a beautiful person inside and out, the world is a little sadder place now that you have passed.
Love, JP


Posted by: JP Lessard    Sep 02, 2019

What can I say about Francine?  She was my sister for over 52 years. From the time she came into our family, she brought her joy and laughter, her wonderful sense of humor and her talent for cooking.  We were truly blessed to have her in our family.  She was always fun to be around, always a good sport, even going trick-or-treating with me when she was pregnant!  
She loved with her whole heart and welcomed so many into her home with kindness.  Over the years, when the kids had friends who needed a place to stay, her answer was always, yes, of course they can stay with us!  We shared so many good times, family gatherings and great meals over the years.  I was fortunate enough to spend some time with Roland and Francine so that I could learn how to prepare some of our favorite dishes.  She was the cook and we were her hands.
I am glad that her suffering is now done and she can rest in peace with her glorified, perfect new body in heaven but we will miss her terribly.  We love her and look forward to seeing her again one day in Paradise.

Our most vivid memory of Francine was her personal courage and graciousness by which she fought through the devastating disease.  She always had a smile on her face and a positive attitude ….. especially when the Diamondback were winning

I am so sorry for your great loss.
I will miss her too.
My deepest sympathy to you and the whole family.  

OBITUARY

Francine Mercier Lessard

November 11, 1944 – August 29, 2019

A.L. Moore-Grimshaw Mortuaries Bethany Chapel

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