Janet Fite Francis

On August 5, 2024, Janet Fite Francis of McConnelsville, Ohio, 75, passed away peacefully in Marysville, Ohio. She was born on May 16, 1949 in Cynthiana, Kentucky to Melvin Clay Fite and Dorothy Louise Readnour Fite, as the fourth of nine children. On October 23, 1965, Janet married the love of her life, Elmer David “Dave” Francis, and together they raised three boys – David Douglas, Scott Edward, and Jammie Clay Francis. 

Never one to shy away from hard work, Janet worked many jobs over the years to help provide for her family. From waitressing as a young mother at the old L&K restaurant in Plain City, to working as a custodian for Dublin Schools, to driving a semi-truck with Dave in their empty-nest years, Janet always worked hard.

Janet loved to play games of all sorts, but cards were her absolute favorite. Being the fierce competitor (ahem, cheater) that she was, many cards were thrown across the table and more than a few Monopoly boards were flipped over during a heated game. 

There was always a pot of coffee at the ready for anyone who entered Janet’s home. She has provided so many friends and family countless hours of support, wisdom, and love over a cup of coffee. Her warmth and generosity were felt by anyone who spent time with her. She would have given her last dime to a loved one in need. 

As a young mother, Janet made Jesus Christ her Lord and Savior while attending the Plain City Church of God. She remained a faithful servant and provided spiritual comfort to many through the years. She enjoyed southern gospel and bluegrass gospel, especially The Cook Family, The Isaacs, Jeff and Sherry Easter and many more. 

In 1993, Janet and Dave made their home in McConnelsville. The home that they built together over the next decade brought Janet great peace and joy. Sitting on one of her many decks having her morning coffee was a daily ritual she cherished. Janet loved hosting family events at her home, including shaving cream fights that brought out the kid in everyone. 

Even more than her home, Janet’s greatest joy came from her three boys. She loved them beyond measure. She was always eager to hear the tales of their lives and the lives of her 14 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and all of her many nieces and nephews. 

Janet was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer David Francis; father, Melvin Clay Fite; mother, Dorothy Louise Readnour Fite; sisters, Geraldine Fite Weber, Debby Fite, Barbara Nell Fite Daum, Eileen Fite; and brother Gary Douglas Fite. 

Janet was a devoted dog lover. Throughout her times of grief and suffering, her dogs provided her much comfort and emotional support. Although all four of her dogs preceded her in death, her terrier-mix, Peej was there for her the longest. 

We are comforted to know that she is with the many loved ones that she has missed so desperately. Let the games begin!

Per Janet’s request, no funeral service will be held. A private memorial and spreading of her ashes will be held at the location of her choosing. 

“So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.” 1 Cor. 15:54