Patricia Joan Francis Bradford passed away peacefully at home on the morning of June 30, 2025.  She was born March 1, 1934, in Howe, Texas. She lived an eventful 91 years and was her feisty, determined self until the very end. She was the youngest child and only daughter of Paul Jones Francis and Lois Margaret Baxter Francis. She was the apple of her Daddy's eye!

 

Pat (aka Jo, Joan, Mrs. B, Mom, Grandmommy and Great-Grandmommy) grew up in Howe and graduated as Valedictorian of her senior class. She was a member of the Church of Christ and loved reading and studying her Bible. She also taught many Sunday School classes over the years and attended countless Bible studies.

 

She was a voracious reader. Her favorite books were mysteries - especially historical mysteries. The library was always one of her favorite places. She also enjoyed needlework before her wet macular degeneration forced her to give up cross stitching. And watching game shows - especially Jeopardy - with family was a favorite pastime. She also wrote and mailed countless notes of encouragement and cards to friends all over the country.

 

Most of all, though, Pat loved spending time with her family. She was generous with her gift giving and had a knack of picking out the perfect present. Even though she did not eat it herself, she made the best banana pudding. And her deviled eggs are legendary.

 

She was preceded in death by her brothers - William, Paul, Robert, David, and Stanley Francis. Also Paul's wife Frances, Robert's wife Ida Mae, and most recently, Stanley's wife Maudeen (Deenie).

 

Survivors include her son, Bill Bradford and wife Kathy, and daughter Roben Closs and husband Joe. Her grandchildren include James Closs, Jeremy Closs and wife Danielle, Sarah Spencer and husband Nathaniel, Joshua Closs, and Rachel Bradford and husband Sean. And her beloved great-grandchildren - Natalia, Maizie, Emilia, and Finley.

 

In accordance with her wishes, she will be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 20th at 3:30 PM at Creekwood United Methodist (creekwoodumc.org) in Allen TX. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to the Visiting Nurse Association of Texas (vnatexas.org); McKinney Public Library Foundation Scholarship Fund (mckinneyplf.org); or Arms of Hope (armsofhope.org).