Elder Grace Andrea Francis Memorial Booklet

Celebrating the Life
& Legacy
of
Service Held At
Evangelistic Temple
Collins Avenue
June 3, 2021 at 2 pm
Officiating
Pastor Cleveland D.X. Wells, Jr.
Restoration Kingdom Ministries,
Assemblies of God
&
Pastor Alonzo Hinsey, Jr.
Golden Gates Native Baptist Church
Interment
Woodlawn Gardens
I poured myself out as a drink offering
– Philippians 2:17

Obituary
If each life is a song, the life of Grace Andrea Darling-Francis was an
entire concert! Classical, no less. Original? Undeniably so. Inimitable?
You better believe it!!! each note played before an Audience of One; each
rendition unselfishly poured out into the reservoirs surrounding her.
Grace loved music and loved to offer up songs of praise, as evidenced in
her daily worship experiences before the Lord. She squeezed so many
chords of wisdom, purpose and kindness into her years (and out of her
soul), that the harmonies of her life will reverberate for as long as music
knows how to make a sound.
As far as instruments go, there was the tuba of her faith and the trumpet
of her devotion to the Lord. Her commitment to her family was played
out on the strings of intercessory love: Wellie on the double bass,
Monique, Samantha, Welmilya and Wel’Andra (Anginique) making
up the four-stringed violin, her sons-in-love, a massive cello, and her
precious grand-daughters, the viola, the violin’s diminutive in size but
not in strength. Her service to mankind was so constant it required
an entire woodwind section: the oboe, the flute, the clarinet and the
bassoon. Make no mistake though: this classically lived life was not
without its eclectic parts. Her intentionality alone was
a set of drums at a rock performance
summoning those around her to aim
higher, to live louder, to give bigger
because what is life if it is not fully lived?
That was Grace: a divinely-finessed melody
consistently reproducing after her own
kind, so that those she gave birth to in the
natural and in the spirit, and those she
influenced in multitudinous tunes, will
honour her by living their own lives in a way
that adds, empowers, and strengthens. That
is the essence of grace, is it not? To render
better whatever it comes alongside. Such was
the case of this regal “Darling” whose life and
legacy we forthwith celebrate.
It was in the month of new beginning and
emancipation: August, on the day of double

grace: the 10th, in the year 1955, that the blessed union of Japheth and Kathleen
Marshall Darling produced their 11th child, a fifth daughter whom they gave
a Greek and Christian name: Grace, meaning “love” and “Blessing from God.”
Its Latin meaning is goodness, generosity and charm; and in French, it means
pleasantness. Prophetic proof of her given name, Grace Andrea was a delight to
the parents she was born to, and to the family she was born in.
It can be said that when Lady Kathleen, affectionately known as “Mama”, gave birth
to Grace, she gave birth to a promise kept; a promise of faithful support that never
waned. She and Mama shared a very special bond and the memories of the father
who passed away when Grace was a little girl, are nonetheless fond ones. She was
proud of her Marshall and Darling heritage and passed that appreciation on to her
own legacy.
The Early Years
Grace, like all of her siblings before her, spent her formative years in the family
homestead on Darling Lane, off Wulff Road in New Providence. She received her
initial education at Southern Primary School and from early on demonstrated
intellectual prowess. She was a sharp, focused and conscientious student for whom
numbers and reading came naturally. An avid consumer of information, the quiet,
reserved Grace was known to read several books per day, but it soon became
clear that she possessed a practicality that balanced this bookish disposition. She
was domestically-inclined as well, finding sewing, cooking and baking easy and
enjoyable. Her siblings described her as a peculiar child who always poured herself
into everything she did, going that extra mile to ensure anything she committed to
was done in the spirit of excellence.
Fiercely organized, she embodied the saying: “cleanliness
is next to Godliness.” Her penchant for interior design and
arrangement was evident from her youth and if design is a
theme, it extended to the way she presented herself
to the world. Always well-

dressed and “put together,” she had a talent for fashion
and grand style. It is no exaggeration that she turned
heads when she walked into a room. It became clear that
with Grace, not only the left brain dominated. She had
a keen artistic side as well. As a youth, she wrote poetry,
played the flute, and participated in band, recitals and
stage. Juxtaposed to this artistic side, was a commitment
to service that would last her entire life. She was
involved in Girls Scouts, Girls’ Guides, Red Cross and
other service-oriented organizations from early on and
her family can attest to the countless ways in which she
served her church and wider community through her
generosity and organizational skills.
During her junior high school years, Grace spent three
years in New York, before returning to Nassau in 1966.
Winning a scholarship to Jordan Prince William High
School, she continued to apply herself but frequent
absences due to illness, would lead to her withdraw and
eventually graduate from Easter Senior High School.
Subsequently, she enrolled in several evening certificate
courses in business, short hand, book keeping and
accounts. Grace continued to enroll in professional
development programs to upgrade her business and
accounting skills. Whatever she put her mind and hands
to, she excelled at. This was just the “Grace” way.
Grace and Wellie: A Love Story the Lasted Over Fifty
Years
In April 1968, prior to graduating from high school,
Grace met the young, dapper policeman Wellington
Francis at a party being held for his aunt and guardian,
Victoria Hanna. He was captivated by Grace’s beauty and
remembers that she spoke
often about school because she was a top scholar. They
began to court, as he visited her home and took her on
dates, mainly to church events and concerts as he was a
member of the singing group, the Joybells.
On August 7th, 1970, Grace and Wellie joined in
holy matrimony and were married for more than five
decades. Theirs was a heartfelt friendship and enduring
companionship. Grace embodied what it meant to
be a helpmate and yet Wellie would be the first to
acknowledge that in so many ways, they thrived because
she was not afraid to “borrow the reins” and lead in the
areas of her strength. She served him, he adored her and
in their later years it was evident that they had eased
into the wordless intimacy that longstanding connection
brings.
And Then There Were Four…
Their union produced four daughters, each of whom
exudes a significant shade of “Grace.” Words cannot
adequately describe the kind of mother Grace Francis
was! She poured herself out as a drink offering into her
daughters, emphasizing education and requiring that
each of them attain the minimum of a master’s degree.
Imminently, Monique will become the second doctor
in this family of four girls.
Each daughter has a business and it
pleased Grace to assist administratively
and otherwise in the three that are
headquartered in Nassau: Comfort
Smiles, Global College Access
and Chatwell Educational
Centre. When Monique

and Wel’Andra published their first books, she was
there again, assisting at the launch, pushing sales and
encouraging them to continue succeeding as thought
leaders in their respective fields.
Of all the roles Grace Francis played, the role of mother
was the role in which her boldness shone forth! Her girls
attest to the truth that their mother, though reserved
and humble, would jump over walls and run through
hoops to ensure they had what they needed to succeed.
She equipped the four of them in ways that are just now
beginning to make complete sense.
Her daughter Wel’Andra puts it in the way Tim McGraw
phrases it: “She lived like she was dying.”
So what are you gonna do with your time?
I’ll take every moment
I know that I own them
It’s all up to you to do whatever you choose
Live like you’re dying
And never stop trying
It’s all you can do
Use what’s been given to you
She lived her life like she was dying. Organized to the core,
she always had at hand what her daughters needed and could
often be heard saying:
“Monique, I won’t always be here, you have to do it this way.”
“Sam, I need you to focus.”
“Willie, let me show you where everything is.”
“Angie, all the information you need, is right here.”
Her equipping was so intentional, that if anyone of them is
lacking in an area, they know they can be supplied by one of
their sisters. That too was her intention: to raise them in unity,
repeatedly warning them, “When I go, if I dream one of you
has bread and doesn’t share it with the others, I will come back
for you!”
Unity among the four Francis girls was not an option. She
made room for their differences, yet raised them on the same
values: the importance of God, family and education. As
much as she was committed to excellence, she was balanced
in her approach and committed to their spiritual, physical and
emotional well-being. Angie remembers her mother always
saying she prefers a sane child over the alternative and only
required that they do their best. If that “best” meant sitting
in a class and taking notes because one of them couldn’t or
flying to help a dentist-to-be study for Board exams, Grace
conquered every multisyllabic biological term and did what
she needed to do to lend support.

Grace: The Occupational Blessing!
At each one of her workplaces, Grace was an
occupational blessing: diligent, honest and competent.
In addition to being the consummate employee, she
became an intercessor for the leaders, managers,
colleagues and customers of those establishments. She
worked at Super Value as a cashier until the family which
only included Monique and Samantha at that time,
moved to Andros in 1977 when Wellie was transferred
there. Grace was hired as a manager at Small Hope.
In 1980, Wellie was promoted to take charge of the entire
Andros and Berry Island District and the family thus
relocated to Nichols Town where Grace joined the team
at Andros Beach Hotel. She worked there until the 1981
return to New Providence and soon thereafter gave birth
to their third gem, Welmilya.
Grace’s first appointment following the move back to
Nassau, was at the renowned Compass Point Studios
where she met celebrities including Gladys Knight,
Eddie Murphy and the Rolling Stones. Subsequently,
she added her expertise to the Accounts Department at
Coral World and then at Bahamasair. In 1999, she went
to work at Master Technicians and her final formal stint
was spent at Bahamas Food Services until her retirement
in 2016.
One of the factors that influenced her decision to retire
was the loss of her older sister, Leotha and her baby
sister, Karen, in one year. Grace wanted to have the
freedom to travel, and to spend more time with family.
However, her retirement also gave way to yet more
assignments.
Her Walk with God; Her Service to Man
In fact, those closest to her can attest that Grace
Andrea was always “on assignment.” She lived her life
intentionally in small and great ways, and her many
assignments meant enlisting the help of her children
or other intercessors for reinforcement as she prayed,
fasted, distributed food items and clothing, planned
charitable events, and in countless ways poured out
herself to make life better for others.
Even as a young woman, she had an incredibly close
relationship with Jesus with whom she had a special
encounter in a dream in which He placed His seal upon
her, thereby healing her. That encounter would produce
a lifetime of encounters and intercessory deployments
from the embassy above.
If any one word could be used to describe the way she
handled people, it was the word “care.”
Consistently
Attending to and
Resourcing
Everyone.
In addition to nursing her husband and daughters back
to wholeness whenever their health faltered, she cared

for missionaries and served tirelessly in each of the
churches she became a part of.
She was initially a member of Zion Baptist Church
Shirley St, then followed her mother to the Church
of God Lily of The Valley. Once she married, Grace
joined her husband Wellington at Evangelistic Centre,
Assemblies of God on Vesey Street. At the “Centre” she
was a part of the praise team, choir, and worked as a
secretary for the church in 2006. In 2007 Grace, along
with Wellie, opened their doors to allow their son, Rev.
Cleveland, to adhere to the call on his life and therefore
to begin Ministry. Services for Restoration Kingdom
Ministries (RKM) began in the Francis’ home, and
approximately two months later, Grace and Wellington
joined the RKM family. It was evident once she became
an integral part of RKM, that Grace Francis was an
architect; a builder in the service of the Lord as she
worked alongside Rev. Cleveland and Rev. Samantha
to realize their ministerial dream of simultaneously
building an edifice and raising up an army of faithful
believers.
She lived a life of gratitude; extremely grateful to God
for all his blessings he bestowed upon her. She never
hid that she was blessed and often boasted to her
children how God had answered every prayer request
concerning her and her family.
Grace: The Project Manager
Grace Darling-Francis was always working on a project,
the last of which, was her inheritance on Darling Lane.
She worked with an urgency to have it completed, and it
was after her Heavenly flight, that her daughters learned
the urgency was due to her desire to financially buoy her
four eldest grandchildren as three of them prepare for
college enrolment this summer. She was always thinking
about others. Her ultimate life’s goal was to build a youth
crisis centre which her daughters have vowed to make a
reality.
Her Clock was Always on…Family Time
She never pressured her children for anything but time.
She looked forward to family outings, Mother-Daughter
lunches, family drives, family voyages and shopping
trips. Anyone who knows the family knows that the
Sunday afternoon family dinner was “Grace Time.”
She looked forward to it every week and at that table
the family sat down to fellowship, and got up to rule
the world, undergirded always by the prayers of their
Warrior Mother. The last meal she cooked for her family
the week before Mother’s Day was an iconic one: bean
and rice, roast, fried chicken, macaroni, potato salad,
tossed salad, crab salad and plantain. It was just her way
of pouring herself out, yet again.
Mother’s Day this year was a very special time for her
and upon leaving Monique’s home, she expressed how
much she enjoyed their dinner together and their time of
gift-sharing and love-lavishing.

Grace never gave birth to sons but she was not short on
sons. She loved her boys and felt particularly thrilled
to have, not one, but two sons who were pastors. She
made it her place to intercede on behalf of Restoration
Kingdom Ministries and Golden Gates Native Baptist
Church each morning at 5 a.m., undergirding the
pastoral teams and membership in prayer.
Even from the place beyond time, her intentionality
and life of intercession, continues to comfort and
undergird her children. Her daughter Samantha
found a note in her handwriting with four appropriate
Scriptures and reminders for such a time as this:
Deuteronomy 31:8-9: The Lord Himself goes before
you and will be with you. He will never leave you nor
forsake you. His peace gives us comfort.
John 16:22: So with you: Now is your time of grief, but
you’ll see Mom again and rejoice with joy.
Matthew 5:4: “Blessed are those who mourn for they shall
be comforted.”
Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice and
mourn with those who mourn.”
Her Final Chapter
Every day of Grace’s life was about family. The last few
weeks before her demise she enjoyed lunch dates with
her daughters and spending her days of retirement with
her lover and lifetime companion of over 50 years. The
highlight of her days was hearing from her granddaughters,
including daily video calls with granddaughter
Maya Abigail, and making memories with her
namesake, grand-daughter Ava-Riley Grace.
On Wednesday, May 19th Grace, was rushed to
Doctor’s Hospital, as she had become very ill. The
seeds of prayer she sowed for so many for over sixty
years, became the harvest of prayer calls where
intercessors locally and internationally gathered
physically and virtually to cover her and petition God
for her healing. What their prayers formed instead was
an escort service, beckoning to the angels to come and
take her Home.
On that day, a date characterized by multiples of five
and seven, for grace and completion, Grace Andrea
Darling-Francis finally, with everything poured out,
died empty and took both her rest…and her reward.

Left to continue playing the symphony of her melodious
life and to use what’s been given to them are:
Her loving husband of more than 50 years, Retired
Deputy Superintendent of Police, Wellington Milton; her
four devoted daughters, Rev. Monique, Rev. Samantha,
Dr. Welmilya and Wel’Andra; adopted daughter, Patrice
Francis; her beloved sons, Rev. Alonzo Hinsey, Jr., Rev.
Cleveland D.X. Wells, Calvin Davis and Rodney Rolle;
and her Grand-daughters Cateleen and Catherine Wells,
Aalaiyah and Anaiyah Hinsey, Maya Rolle, Canaan and
Ava-Riley Davis.
Brothers: Japheth, Eugene, and Bishop James Darling;
Sisters: Annie Smith and Ivy Knowles;
Uncles: Leroy Moss and Kelly Darling;
Mother-in-law: Helen Arnett;
Brothers-in-law: Stafford Storr, Anthony Arnett and
Family, Pastor Lawrance Arnett and Family, Rev.
Henry and Sheila Francis and Family,
Nehemiah and Shirley Francis
and Family;
Sisters in-law: Grace
and Brenda Darling,
Brenda and Paulette
Arnett, Mardrolee
Brice, Judith, Shirley,
Sheila and Deidre
Francis;
Nieces and Nephews: Bishop Chadwick and Christine
James, Ezra and Shennen Braynen, Michael and
Bridgette Evans, Lynden and Marvin Smith, Terrence,
Obefeme, Philip, Lolitha Knowles, Rochelle St. John,
Leslie and Tracey Munroe, Dr. Derwin, Lanson and
Patrice Munroe, Manell Munroe, Jason, Devado, Blaize,
Domaz, Daron, Joshua, Anthony, Jeffery Darling, Irvin,
Vashtie, Simone, Dahlia, Jael, Jamime, Tamara, Eugenia,
Carolyn and Catherine Darling; Nicole Hutcheson and
Sharmaine and Kirk Griffin; Ross Wilson; Carla Smith
and Family; Christine and Sandra Francis and Families;
Numerous Grand Nieces and Nephews to include:
Deangelo, Shavan, Shavanda, Michaella, Deandrea,
Otimia, Denario, Deanaldo, Renaldo, Ramon, Kato,
Theresa, Lanthro, Piaget, Jordan, Kayleigh, Symphony,
Devado Jr. Alayna, Tevano, Paige, Zavier, Emilio, Alana,
Chadwick II, Chadwin, and Chadvaughn, Israel and
Kiran Griffin;
Cousins: Thelma Patterson, Kerneva Meadows, Gloria
Thompson of Eleuthera, Hester Johnson, Francis Ledee,
Hortence Harris-Smith, Adell Butler, Pastor Marilyn
Thompson, Shirley, Dorothy, Lavita Rolle, Mable
Johnson, Rachel Evans, Rosemary Cartwight, Nellie
Simms, Celeste, Alicia, Eltima, Geermaine, Todd, Gray
Jr. of New York, Hazel Young of Miami, Enith Ferguson
of North Carolina, Hartman and Cinida Brice, and
Hubert Marshall, Donna and Diane Darville, Franklyn
Ferguson, Dorothy Moss, Bishop Godfrey Williams and

family, Sarahlee Williams and family, Dorothy Poiter,
Iva Williams and Family, Lavern Cooper and family,
Delcean Douglas and Family, Bruce Hanna and family,
Shirely Davis and family, Elsworth Hanna and family,
Kenneth Hanna and family, Robert Hanna and Family,
Ruth Hanna, Edward Hanna and family, Rose Bain and
family, Arlington and Vicki Hanna and family, Bernard
Hanna and family, Alexander Hanna and family, Audrey
Fernander and family, Dorothea Davis, Dereck Francis,
Ross Wilson and Basil Francis;
Grace Francis’ Family & Special Friends including:
Judy Deleveaux and family, Restoration Kingdom
Ministries Family, Golden Gates Native Baptist Church
Family, GGBC Prayer Circle, Apostle Sherilyn Fletcher
and The Children’s Bread Prayer line, Evangelistic
Centre, Evangelistic Temple, The Assemblies of God
Family, Comfort Smiles Family, Master Technicians
Family, Bahamas Food Services Family, Anatol Rodgers
Family, Chilean Burrows and Jurelle Mullings & family
the Scholarship and Educational Loans Division and the
Public School Scholars.
Marge Bowleg, Oswald & Melrose Pinder & Family,
Pastor Tyrone Sands & Family, Supt. Patrick & Sharlene
Paul & Family, The Paul Family, Pastor Neil & Katherine
Hamilton & Family, Pastor Cyril & Lavane Sands &
Family, H.L & Sharon Rolle & Family, Mike Ellis &
Family, Rudy Stubbs & Family, Edna Leadon & Family,
Harrington “Zip” & Margarete Fraizer & Family, Richard
& Namoi Clarke & Family, Richard Riley, Myers Johnson,
Mr. & Mrs. Wilfred Johnson, Wendall “Skinny” Moxey
& Family, Commissioner of Police Paul Rolle, DCOP
Ismella Delancey, RBPF Senior Adminstrators, RBPF
Retirees Association, Eliothia Hamilton, Rev. Dr. Alonzo
& Jessie Hinsey & Family, Bishop Raymond Mackey,
The Braynens, Jeff Birch & Margo Birch, Marie Davis
and Family, Mable Stubbs & Loretta, Pastor Leon &
Annamae Hinsey, The entire Hinsey Family, Sandra
Rolle & Family, Dr. Sparkman Ferguson & Family, Dr.
Kendall Major & Family, Dr. Renald Turnquest, Larenzo
& Julianna Bullard & Family, Christopher & Patricia
Knowles & Family, Sheryl Stevenson, Cheryl Knowles-
Cartwright & Sheryl’s Beauty Salon, Francyss & Suzette
Pratt, Dr. Crystal DeGregory, Kingsway Class of 1999 &
2002, Minique Tynes, RoyAnn Neely Morisson, Willissa
Mackey, Dr. Nelson Clarke & Family, Kimly Brown,
Althera Colebrooke, Tanya Astwood, Patricia Chatti,
Drumeco Archer, Geonese Ewing, Annie Laurie Munroe,
Enos & Family, Eunice Petithomme & Family, Maggielee
& Family, Rev. Hervis & Anita Bain & Family, Pastor
Katherina Williams & Family, Dorothy Cooper & Family,
Mervin Fynes & Family, Tony McKinney, Halbrook
Stuart & Family, Bridgette Francis Butler & Family, Cpl.
Moncur, Supt. Denise Rose, W Sgt. Fynes & The Staff of
RBPF Insurance, Corporal Moncur and RBPD staff, Ellsie
Mackey & Family, Pastor Fritz & Family, Pastor Newbold
& Family, The Joan’s Heights Community, The Darlings
Lane Community, The Bamboo Town Constituency, The
Central & North Andros Communities.
Special Thank You:
Pilot Aaron Hinsey, Gillian Curry-Williams, Dr.
Christine Chin, Dr. N’Tari Michael Darville, Dr. Gibson,
Dr. McCartney, Dr. Bonimy, Dr. DeCosta & Bahamas
Heart Centre and the Doctors Hospital Emergency Room
and ICU Team.

Order of Service
Officiating
Pastor Cleveland D.X. Wells, Jr
Restoration Kingdom Ministries, Assemblies of God
Pastor Alonzo Hinsey, Jr.
Golden Gates Native Baptist Church
Pre Praise – Patrice Paul & Family
SEATING OF FAMILY
CALL TO WORSHIP (PSALM 24) | Pastor Alonzo Hinsey, Jr. (Son)
OPENING HYMN | All Hail The Power of Jesus Name
All hail the power of Jesus’ name!
Let angels prostrate fall;
Bring forth the royal diadem
And crown him Lord of all.
Bring forth the royal diadem
And crown him Lord of all.
Crown him, you martyrs of our God,
Who from his altar call;
Extol the stem of Jesse’s rod
And crown him Lord of all.
Extol the stem of Jesse’s rod
And crown him Lord of all.
O seed of Israel’s chose race,
Now ransomed from the fall,
Hail him who saves you by his grace
And crown him Lord of all.
Hail him who saves you by his grace
And crown him Lord of all.
Sinners, whose love can never forget
The wormwood and the gall,
Go, spread you trophies at his feet
And crown him Lord of all.
Go, spread you trophies at his feet
And crown him Lord of all.
Let every kindred, every tribe
On this terrestrial ball
To him all majesty ascribe
And crown him Lord of all.
To him all majesty ascribe
And crown him Lord of all.
Oh, that with yonder sacred throng
We at his feet may fall!
We’ll join the everlasting song
And crown him Lord of all.
We’ll join the everlasting song
And crown him Lord of all.
Hail him, you heirs of David’s line,
Whom David Lord did call,
The God Incarnate, man divine,
And crown him Lord of all.
The God Incarnate, man divine,
And crown him Lord of all.

INVOCATION | Bishop James Darling (Brother)
OLD TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE READING | PSALM 116:6-14 | Richine Bethell (Niece)
PRAISE & WORSHIP | Patrice Paul & Family
Condolences | Hon. Marvin Dames, MP, Minister of National Security
Mrs. Audrey Flowers, GM
Master Technicians
Bahamas Food Services
Rev. Dr. Vaughn Cash
New Providence District Presbyter & Sr. Pastor - Evangelistic Temple Assemblies of God
Rev. Dr. Patrick Paul
Superintendent Assembly of God in The Bahamas & Turks & Caicos Islands
Solo | Otimia Pennerman Niece
TRIBUTE | Bro. Carl Oliver
Trustee, Restoration Kingdom Ministries, AG
AS I KNEW HER | Nicole Hutchinson (Niece)
AS I KNEW HER | Bridgette Evans (Niece)
TRIBUTE | Melrose Pinder (Family Friend)
TRIBUTE | Cateleen, Catherine, Aalaiyah & Anaiyah (Grand Children)
NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE | 2 Timothy 4:1-8 | Sis. Lisa Oliver
OBITUARY | TO BE READ IN SILENCE
PRAISE DANCE | Restoration Dance Ministry
EUOLOGY | Pastor Cleveland D. X. Wells (Son)
PRAYER FOR THE FAMILY | Rev. Dr. Patrick Paul

RECESSIONAL HYMN | I’m Glad I’ve Counted The Cost
When first I started to seek the Lord, I’m glad I counted the cost;
I fully measured my Jesus’ Word; I’m glad I counted the cost.
(Chorus)
I’ve paid the price and obtained the prize,
He saved my soul that was lost;
And now my treasures are in the skies,
I’m glad I counted the cost.
I laid my sorrows at Jesus’ feet, I’m glad I counted the cost;
And now I’ve pleasures so pure and sweet, I’m glad I counted the cost.
I’ve bid farewell to this world of sin, I’m glad I counted the cost;
And now my Jesus abides within, I’m glad I counted the cost.
I cast on Jesus my every care, I’m glad I counted the cost;
And all my burdens He helps to bear, I’m glad I counted the cost.
’Twill not be long till the Lord shall come, I’m glad I counted the cost;
And bear my soul to that heav’nly home, I’m glad I counted the cost.

Graveside Hymns
GLAD REUNION DAY
There will be a happy meeting in heaven I know
When we see the many loved ones we’ve known here below.
Gather on the blessed hilltops with hearts all aglow.
That will be a glad reunion day.
(Chorus)
Glad day, a wonderful day,
Glad day, a glorious day;
There with all the holy angels
and loved ones to stay,
That will be a glad reunion day.
There within the holy city we’ll sing and rejoice,
Praising Christ the blessed Saviour with heart and with voice.
Tell him how we came to love Him and make Him our choice.
That will be a glad reunion day.
When we live a million years in that wonderful place
Basking in the love of Jesus, beholding His face.
It will seem but just a moment of praising His grace.
That will be glad reunion day.
CITY OF GOLD
There’s a city of Light, where there cometh no night;
‘Tis a city of beauty untold;
All my treasures are there and its beauty I’ll share,
When I get to that city of gold.
(Chorus)
When I leave all trouble and care,
I will say good morning up there;
I will have great gladness untold,
When I get to that city of gold
There’s no sorrow up there in that city so fair
And no sickness can enter I’m told;
Shadows all will have flown,
I will meet friend I’ve known
When we get to that city of gold.
Won’t you go there with me to the home of the free,
Would you see heaven’s beauty unfold?
If you will come along, we will sing heaven’s song
When we get to that City of gold.
EASTERN GATE
I will meet you in the morning,
Just inside the Eastern Gate;
Then be ready, faithful pilgrim,
Lest with you it be too late.
Refrain:
I will meet you, I will meet you
Just inside the Eastern Gate over there;
I will meet you, I will meet you,
I will meet you in the morning over there.
Keep your lamps all trimmed and burning;
For the Bridegroom watch and wait;
He’ll be with us at the meeting
Just inside the Eastern Gate. [Refrain]
Oh, the joys of that glad meeting
With the saints who for us wait!
What a blessed, happy meeting
Just inside the Eastern Gate!
If you hasten off to glory,
Linger near the Eastern Gate,
For I’m coming in the morning;
So you’ll not have long to wait. [Refrain]

OH, I WANT TO SEE HIM
As I journey through the land singing as I go,
Pointing souls to Calvary– to the crimson flow,
Many arrows pierce my soul from without, within;
But my Lord leads me on, through Him I must win.
Refrain:
Oh, I want to see Him, look upon His face,
There to sing forever of His saving grace;
On the streets of Glory let me lift my voice;
Cares all past, home at last, ever to rejoice.
2 When in service for my Lord dark may be the night,
But I’ll cling more close to Him, He will give me light;
Satan’s snares may vex my soul, turn my thoughts aside;
But my Lord goes ahead, leads whate’er betide. [Refrain]
3 When in valleys low I look toward the mountain height,
And behold my Savior there, leading in the fight,
With a tender hand outstretched toward the valley low,
Guiding me, I can see as I onward go. [Refrain]
4 When before me billows rise from the mighty deep,
Then my Lord directs my bark; He doth safely keep,
And He leads me gently on through this world below;
He’s a real friend to me, oh, I love Him so.
IT IS FINISHED
There’s a line that’s been drawn through the ages;
On that line stands the old rugged cross.
On that cross a battle is raging
For the gain of man’s soul or his loss.
On one side march the forces of evil,
All the demons and devils of hell.
On the other the angels of glory
And they meet on Golgotha’s hill.
The earth shakes with the force of the conflict;
The sun refuses to shine.
For there hangs God’s Son in the balance,
And then through the darkness He cries:
“It is finished!” The battle is over!
It is finished! There’ll be no more war!
It is finished! The end of the conflict!
It is finished and Jesus is Lord!
Yet in my heart the battle was still raging;
Not all pris’ners of war have come home.
They were battlefields of my own making,
I didn’t know that the war had been won.
Then I heard that the King of all ages
Had won all the battles for me.
And the vict’ry was mine for the claiming;
And now praise His name I am free!
And it is finished! The battle is over!
It is finished! There’ll be no more war!
It is finished! The end of the conflict!
It is finished and Jesus is Lord!
He is Lord! He is Lord! He is Lord!
Jesus is Lord!

To My Loving Wife
To the special joy of my life who supported me every
day of my life; I still find it difficult to believe that you
are gone. It was always my expectation that although
you had taken sick suddenly, you would have recovered
so that we could have continued our special and unique
time together. I watched you on a daily basis pour
your heart out to ensure that everybody was comforted
and you never sought to be served; rather you served.
It’s hard to pen words to describe how I watched you
ardently mentor our children by instilling values that are
not common today. I am so proud of the examples that
you set and today the entire life of all of your children
is richer. And although there is a degree of sadness, I
am proud because when I see their actions, I see Grace.
I know that amid all the sorrows and void, our hope is
grounded in God’s promise that we will meet again. I
have so much fond memories from the first day I met
you. Your charm and your beauty spoke volumes and
your life living was no exception.
Sometimes you left me in awe in view of some of
the things that you did for the development of God’s
Kingdom, family and indeed humanity. You were an
organizer par excellent. It would appear that during
your sojourn, rest was never a word in your vocabulary.
But now that God has called you home, rest, rest, rest
and definitely we will meet again to connect in the
promise of God.
I love you perpetually, which was our watch word from
day one.
Your loving husband,
Wellie

The Strong One
Mom when I think of you, I think of a warrior
princess. You epitomized your name so gracefully
yet you were a bold, courageous fighter. You warded
over your family and loved ones and girded them
daily in prayer. Like a superwoman you often traded
your ball gowns, fancy suits and big hats for your
prayer shawl and sword.
Your smile was your secret weapon which got you
into closed doors and summoned favor even when
the odds were against you. You were a goddess of
cleanliness yet you were never ashamed to get dirty
to get the job done. You were a modern day disciple,
missionary and evangelist. Your missions took you
across different spheres yet you were never too busy
for your spouse and children. You gave birth to four
yet you mothered and poured into many. You were
a lover of people and loved hard yet you kept your
circle tight. Like a mother hen your feathers were our
safety net.
You taught us all to fly and your prayer closet was
our refueling station. You transformed your home
into a hospice, hospital, crisis center, counseling
center, missions quarters, prayer grotto, and temple.
Most days you took off your cape and exchanged it
for an apron, cooking a plethora of meals, baking
and serving your family, loved ones and all who
desired to dine at the Francis table. Our Sunday
gatherings always seemed to end in you preparing
the communion table and having your sons serve
while ending in prayer. Even the youngest of the
grandchildren embraced your oil baths and honored
them as their special covering. Being the virtuous
woman that you were, you managed your home well
yet your name prepared the way for so many.
You used your network to access jobs for so many
young people and fought for so many to embrace
the same higher education opportunities that
you instilled in your own children. You had your
personal projects and persons you sowed into. You
mastered the gift of multiplication and knew how to
invest a hundred dollars in so many ways yet never
ever forgetting your seed to the kingdom first. You
taught us how to break barriers on our knees and
made daily declarations into the lives of so many.
Mommy thank you for almost 50 wonderful years
of life lasting memories. You were the best wife and
mother a family could ever ask for. You gave us your
all. If only I knew what the 35 days countdown was
all about, I would have slept at your feet and spent
every second of every minute of every day with you
soaking up your love, wisdom and the strength you
had left in you. Mother’s Day was our final family
gathering, and you surely enjoyed your gourmet
meal, gift giving and spending time with your family.
You hugged me a little tighter and I didn’t want to
let you go. Little did I know this would be our very
last embrace and kiss. From the age of 7 you were
preparing me for your departure reminding me that
I was the eldest and needed to be strong. You were
intentional about making a strong one out of me.
On May 19th, as I walked into the mortuary to see
you one more time, the walk from the door to the
place you laid felt like a thousand miles. As you laid
helpless from fighting yet another battle but this
time with COVID, I had to remind myself that in my
warrior princess fashion another battle was won. I
literally heard the Holy Spirit say “Monique COVID
did not win, your warrior princess fought and when
her physical body was unable to endure, her spirit
summoned the intercessors and the prayers ushered
in a mighty army that ushered her to her eternal
home. As I stood over your body, I heard his voice
say “ Your warrior princess and Strong One died
empty. Like a drink offering she poured herself into
so many and now she is empty.” Your strong one has
taken flight and your strong one has flown home.”
In my distress I tried to make sense of what had
just happened. I reflected on the day being the 19th
day of the fifth month, 2021. As an avid biblical
numerologist, I remained pensive of the date
(1+9=10)+5+10+10+7+7+7). With five being the
number of grace and both ten and seven numbers
of completion, I was comforted in knowing that
Grace truly died empty and completed her early
assignment.
I love you my warrior princess, your love and legacy
will transcend across generations.
Your #1- Dr. Monique Hinsey

THE CREEK
I am sleeping only to be awakened to the sound of you, Mommy
telling me we are going on our nature walk. It is just me and you,
my beach bucket and shovel. You place a hat on my head, and we are
taking our walk across the creek to go shell picking.
This walk together has never ended. No matter my age or the responsibilities
of life, we never stopped walking together. My best
friend, first love, my teacher, counselor, the one who loved me when
I felt unloved, the one who told me never say you can’t!
Mommy you called me your Sammie and I knew what that meant.
We did so much adventurous things together. You encouraged me
to embrace life; I saw you love unconditionally, always prepared to
render counsel and service.
My Rock, I have been gracefully broken, my heart is aching, I have
no words. Will I ever be Sammie again? You saw me when I could
not see myself. You believed in me.
Mommy, there was no day I went to bed without saying, “I Love
You Mommy”. How will it ever get better? My only hope is in Christ
Jesus. You taught me that even in death you will always be with me.
My last, “I Love you Mommy” came oh to soon. This time you went
on the adventure without me. Every day I see you in nature, I see
you in my sisters, my children, my nieces, my brothers, and Daddy.
Mommy, for the first time in my life I am walking without you. I am
going to miss our rides, lunch dates, business runs, food store shopping
or just our “Grace Day” where I am with you to do whatever;
another adventure.
Your last glare in your eyes to mine said: “Sammie, this time Mommy
has to go, but it’s going to be okay. Breathe, my Baby, breathe.”
Mommy, the creek will never be the same without you but when I
walk on the beach, I will remember you playing with me, running
after me, holding my hand. I will feel you in the breeze.
I will hold on to everything you have taught me, and though my
heart yearns for your voice, our daily conversations, and good night
salutations of love, my Queen take your rest and enjoy this new adventure
until we meet again.
Your Sammie

Mommy,
I hope you know I tried. I did all I knew to help you get better.
It ached my soul to see you in such pain. I’m sorry if I was too
firm with you. I had to do all I knew I could to help you and
when I realized it was out of my control I had to send you off
to the hospital. I know you didn’t want to go. I basically made
you go...I know. But I knew I didn’t have anything left. I tried
everything and still you were weak and painful. I packed a bag
thinking you’d be coming back home. My intuition tried to tell
me otherwise but I ignored it. If I ever see the look I saw in
your eyes ever again I’ll know just what it means. Your vessel
was finished, I saw that with my own eyes. You left home and
God decided he’d take over.
I would have kept you here forever if I could, but that’s for my
selfish needs and for Ava. I think even your fight to beat what
that monster was doing to your body was wrapped around
not wanting to disappoint your family by leaving us.
But you have already given us your all. There
was nothing left to do. Your assignment was
completed. And I say that with peace. Thank
you for waiting around for me to have Ava
and teaching me to be a mother. Thank you for
teaching me my faith, prayer and worship.
Thank you for every selfless act that served as
a seed that you planted for a better version of
me. Thank you for everything. I guess these
are the better days ahead you were referring to
huh...I mean you’re in heaven...it doesn’t get any
better than that.
I promise to remember that, “I am the
righteousness of God and I won’t allow anyone
to steal my joy or my beautiful smile.”
I love you forever.
Willie

My Dearest Gracie:
You left me. Living without you was my biggest fear. I wanted
you to live forever. I understood that time was precious, so I
soaked up as much time as I could when we were together and
called you three to four times daily when we were a part.
Gracie, you were my best friend, you knew that. We laughed
together, experienced life together, and you covered me in my
darkest hours. You have been my nurse when I was sick, my
confidant when I needed someone to confide in, my prayer
partner, and my cheerleader when I felt like giving up.
In the latter days of your life, you became more quiet than
usual. As I shared my intimate thoughts and concerns, I wanted
you to intervene, but instead you listened and urged me to pray
more. I now believe that you were preparing me to learn how to
go on without you.
You were my rock! My Gracie Grace, my superhero, my best
friend. I will forever cherish the memories we had and the jokes
we shared. You always made me feel like no matter what I faced
in this life; it would all be okay because God is with me.
We share a similar essence and smile, that is a gift from you that
I will cherish forever. Thank you for ensuring that Maya has a
piece of you and always remembers her Nanna. You carefully
penned a letter to her a few years ago that she will have forever
– “A letter to Maya Abigail from Nanna.”
The last words we said to each other were, I love you. In your
final hours I got to sing “Be still and know that I am God” to
you and Maya, Rodney and I all got to tell you that we loved
you. I know without a shadow of a doubt that you are peacefully
resting in the arms of your maker.
You lived each day as if it were your last; mentoring, giving,
preaching, and praying for others. Your life was a gift to many. I
will hold you in my heart forever.
Love, Your baby girl,
Angie

Mum,
There is no way that I had imagined writing a tribute to you in 2021. “Gone too
soon,” is a gross understatement and yet in the spirit of the way you lived your
life, I am sure you were prepared to meet the King you lived so intentionally to
please. Thankfully, I have had a few occasions to say thank you to you for the
UNUSUAL kindness you extended to me by opening both your heart and your
home in a fashion that was no less than REMARKABLE. I wish I had more time
to say thank you in person, but alas, I hope in your heart you knew that I loved
you, honoured you and remained forever grateful. Your kindness was a plate
on which you served me the gift of my four sisters and they are, in their own
ways, an extraordinary blessing to my life. I’m not sure if you knew the extent
to which I listened to and observed your noble life. From you, I learned many
things, among them the practice of intercession, the importance of forthrightness
and “seizing the moment”, the significance of financial management, and
the huge difference a life of servant leadership makes. Thank you for being you.
I have a number of “Grace-isms” that I will take with me through the rest of my
journey here. I cherish you and for the rest of my life, there will remain in my
heart a very special, carved out place for all things “Grace.”
Love Always,
Tricie
Farewell, Dear Mum
Deep down in my heart beneath all the pain and grief, is a smile when I begin to think of you. You
have been a part of my life for more than 30 years. When I first met you, it was never Mrs. Francis, but
Mum. Not once did you ever treat me as a son-in-law, but you accepted me as the son you never had.
As I reflect over the memories, I recall our many deep conversations on life. I remember you calling
me, sometimes on a daily basis to ensure you were able to access your various accounts and to recall a
password that you would have changed.
I remember the many times you asked me to travel with you to ensure the health and wellbeing of Dad
or one of the girls. You would have everything planned and call to ensure that I was able to move when
you gave the word. Our mission would be to stay as long as needed until we received the report that all
was well.
I remember when I was called to Pastor, you gave your full support through your prayers and finances.
You were a true worshipper. You gave your all during Praise & Worship. When the pandemic hit, I
could guarantee you would be one of the first persons viewing our online church service. I could be
assured of your call each Sunday to tell me how you enjoyed the message.
When joining the Francis family, there was only one request you asked. That we would have Sunday
dinner with you and Dad. We did our best to live up to this promise. To top off the day we would
come together in prayer and communion, giving God thanks for all that He had done for us.
Your presence is irreplaceable. I will miss your talks, your prayers and your words of guidance and
wisdom. Thank you for accepting me as your own. Thank you for the love and support you poured
into me and my family. I will always cherish our time together. May the memories and rich legacy
continue to live on in each of us. I love you. Continue to Sleep In Peace!
Your Son, Try

Dear Hummingbird,
I once read an article about Hummingbirds. There were a million facts listed in
the article but only one stood out to me. The article stated that hummingbirds
have outstanding memories, they can remember the first seconds of their birth
and have a keen survival skill called navigation. I wake up every morning and
look out the window of this two story beige and brown trimmed house and I see a
green hummingbird, not just one shade of green. A painted bird, one crafted with
Gods paint brush. I’ve watched you over the last few days, going back to the same
pink and green flowers, catching the same wind to enter and exit this peaceful
life. What I never understood is how you remembered to come here every day.
Are you checking up on me? are you watching over us? I’ve had you in my life
for twenty years and it gave me comfort to know that every morning I would see
you outside canvasing the yard, but I haven’t seen you in a while. I woke up one
morning praying that you would be there outside and you never came back. Oh,
Hummingbird how much I miss you, how much I crave your sound,
your love, your touch, your presence…but you did your job. You left me
with memories and helped me to navigate this life gracefully. I will miss
you but I know that you love me however, for now I’ll look outside the
window of this two story beige and brown trimmed house and pray that I
see you again.
Your “Pretty Girl,”
Catie
Dear Nana,
Goodbye, a word I never thought I would have to say like a story I never wanted it to
end but I could not stop it. I always thought you would see me walk cross the stage
and clap as I finish my high school career and jump on that 10am flight to take me
to college, then I would call you to meet my friends and the guy I was interested in. I
always thought you would meet my husband and help him with his suit as you pray
over him and end up starting church on my special day. I hate that you are gone, I
wish you could tell me how much you love me one last time and tell my how proud
you are of me. These tears suck and I wish you could wipe them away and tell me
its going to be okay but you’re gone, and it hurts. I am trying to keep my laugh you
loved so much alive, but it still hurts to not hear you tell me I too loud or I need to
close my legs at church. I miss you, so this is goodbye I love you. I hope you know so
to you a queen among angels GOODBYE MY QUEEN.
Catherine

Thank You
Honestly this has to be the hardest act of gratitude
As I’m trying to have a positive attitude.
This pill is a hard one to swallow
But I have to be strong and maybe the rest will follow.
No I was not the oldest but I was your right hand,
You spoke wisdom into me like you knew what was planned.
Motivation , Determination, and dedication
With these you have the perfect equation.
You taught me to always fight for what I believe in,
I guess that’s what made me the rebel within.
The echo of you saying “oh my Layah”
will forever remain with me,
When my mouth gets out of hand and others may disagree.
I’ll be sure to carry on your music legacy,
Vibing to the beats of reggae melodies.
I never understand why you would always push me,
But you knew exactly who Aalaiyah was called to be.
You instilled me with grit and grace
Which is why I always have a smile on my face.
Well Nana, you left me gracefully broken,
With thousands of memories as a token.
Honestly this is the hardest act of gratitude,
But for this I say thank you!
Layah
Hey Nana it’s me.
I guess you are busy doing one of the many roles in your job title. It’s
okay. I know you’ll get back to me as soon as possible. When you do, I’m
ready to talk for hours. You can inform me on your latest challenge and
strategize a plan for your new mountain.
I know you’re worried but you can do anything. Everything I’ve seen
you put even an inch of faith in has come to pass. And your grip on love,
family, God and people in general is so strong.
I’m desperate to see you again and hear you call, “ Hey Baby girl” or “Hey
boo”. I find myself washing dishes or simply breathing and smiling as I feel
your presence staring at me.
Then, you would run out of patience and wave, gaining my attention. As I
became alert, I was ready to take on any tasks for you, knowing you were
willing to shoot any physical or spiritual force down for me. I answered
and you simply replied, “Hi”, and gave me a smile.
I would do anything to be cradled in your arms right this minute. As I
shook painfully, and felt life running out of my body, you would whisper
to me,” It’s going to be okay baby.” I truly didn’t believe it. I just prayed that
you wouldn’t bury me. I didn’t expect this. The way you laid at my feet and
covered my fading body in oil, gave me life. I truly didn’t know what it
meant to love someone, forgive and be peaceful until you told me what it
meant to “Let go” and “Let in.”
You are the air I breathe, the smile I smile, my voice, my laugh, my face,
MY SPIRIT, my LIFE, And my best friend. I’m glad that I got to be your
distraction. Thank you for your endless lessons and prayers and for
pouring your Grace into me. I will always feel your touch, hear your voice
and be a classy, successful and Graceful Ebony, like you’ve made me to be.
I miss you so much and I desire to have our weekly call. However, I now
you’ve equipped me and although I don’t feel like it, I’m going to be okay
and can do anything because you’ve built me, “GRACE TOUGH.’’ I will
talk to you again someday, without distraction, but until then,
I really love you my Nana.
Your second Baby Girl. Anaiyah

Tribute to Sis. Grace Francis
(mother)
In times like these, we need a saviour,
In times like these we need an anchor.
Be very sure, be very sure your anchor holds and grips the
solid rock. The rock is Jesus.
My Dear Sis. Grace Francis,
I am left speechless by the news of your passing that a shock
wave has struck me to my core. The void left deep within me is
so indescribable that I am unable to fathom it.
Truly “the measure of life after all is not it’s duration but its
donation.” As I reflect on the love that you so selflessly gave to
me through your countless prayers for my family and I, your
words of wisdom continue to linger in my mind as I ponder
some of your favourite quotes. No one said it quite like you,
Sis. Grace.
As a young girl growing up in Evangelistic Centre, there was
always such an aura of excellence that followed whenever she
entered the sanctuary as if royalty had just graced the room. I
would always smile and say to myself, “who is that lady,” not
knowing that the Sovereign God would connect us in such a
unique way in the near future. I have watched you constantly
pour out yourself into the work of the Lord and to your family
without expecting any rewards.
I will truly miss our chats over the phone and the sincerity of
your big inviting smile whenever I was in your presence. It
was an honor to have “gleam behind” a virtuous mother like
you, even if it was only for a small moment in time. I am very
humbled and grateful for the mark that Sis. Grace left on my
life. Rest my dear sweet lady, you have paid the price and now
obtain your prize. I’m glad you counted the cost!
Minique Tynes

MY GRACE,
I always called you that. It was as much a pronouncement of my love for you as it was of your love for
me. I was just a teenage college freshman when I answered Willie’s phone to hear your voice. Your
mother had died—and you were leading your family to use the faith she had taught to you to carry
on. That faith was unshakable—just like you, and just like your love. Equal parts willed and willing,
our love was chance and choosing, soft and steely. We shared it well. The casual observer may have
wondered just what the two of us could have possibly had in common, you, a praying church elder—
and well, me. You were a traditionalist in so many ways, but your fiscal savvy and intellectual acuity
were as unassuming as they were expansive. Your persistent prayers and my near-constant jokes were
well-matched in a friendship with Willie turned “familyship,” because of you. Of all of the many things
you did so incredibly well, prayer was chief among them—and yours protected us amid life’s most
challenging storms. Whether you scolded or praised, you gave us what we needed, and we were each
better because of your love. And despite the love you gave to so many, I believe that your specialty was
girls and women—not only the four to whom you gave life, and the girls to whom they gave the same,
but to the many more of us to whom you declared yourself “Mom Grace.” Believing in God, with grit
and with grace, you were the ultimate “Girl Mom.” Because of you, we are smart, we are kind, and we
will be brave. All of your girls, you always decreed, would be the head and not the tail. Just how you
managed to be everything to everyone, we will never know. But this we do: your Grace was more than
sufficient. For your life and your love, God be praised.
Love always, in all ways,
Your Crystal
FROM ELDER TO NANA
Who could have guessed that’s God’s Lady of Faith, Power, Elegance and Pure Humility would have left
us so soon. Truthfully, it still feels so unreal but I am comforted in knowing that I was blessed to meet
a lady of Elegance and who demanded the rooms attention when she arrives. For some, Elder Grace
Francis may have just been the Elder of the church, showing up on a Sunday Morning ready to lift
God’s Name Higher but for me she was far more than that; she literally became my grandmother. Who
gave me pure sound advice whenever we would talk, who laughed with me in our joyous moments
and cried in our saddest times. I especially enjoyed the Sunday afternoon coming up to the house, and
knowing without a doubt that I’d be welcomed with open arms. And if I’m being totally honest, sometimes
I found myself calling her “Nana” and not Elder, but without hesitation Grace Francis would still
replied as if I was biologically her grandson.
But in my grieving, I am comforted knowing that she has ran this race that was allotted out to her well
and have left this world to reap a reward far greater than any riches or gold, far more greater than any
title that can ever be bestowed. For what greater title is there that one can hold except it is the title of
The Child of the Most High. A title in which she boar very bodily with confidence in her God that He
would continue to be faithful to her. Take your rest Elder Grace Francis, for it pleases the Lord to call
His soldier in the army home.
My prayer will forever go out to the family and the entire church family as we prepare to give Mrs.
Grace Francis “Nana” a farewell she is well deserving of.
Take your rest Queen, God has called you home.
You will be sorely missed,
Gabriel John & The John Family

The Pearly White City
At nights I dream of the Pearly White City
That brings great joy to see
I’ll stop and listen to what I’ve read
Because I’m not among the dead.
We live a good bye from year to year
But never seen to be in fear
These unknown objects that drawn so near
Did made me turn around in fear.
In spite of what we say or do
We always should make sure, its true
Just watch the rain drops as it falls
And everyone will hear His call.
This City is a Holy place
Where, no sin can take His space
Adjust, your life and make it right
Then we, would never have to fight.
By: Annie Darling Smith

Tribute to Elder Grace Francis
“God’s Lady of Faith”
“Her Children rise up and call her blessed.
A woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”
The above captures the very essence of our Elder Grace Francis, Servant, Teacher,
Mother, Advisor, Counsellor, Prayer Warrior, Leader, Coordinator, Confidante,
Humble, Faithfull, Devoted, Gods leading Lady with a heart of Pure Gold.
Elder Grace has been a part of my life for over 20 years she became my Mother and her
daughters became my sisters. I know that there was always room at the Francis dinner
table for me.
The news of losing you has shattered my heart in so many ways. Your words of wisdom
and instruction would forever be a part of my life, who would have thought that
Mother’s Day events at Church (RKM) would have been the last occasion we worked
closely together as a committee.
“Well done Elder Grace”.
Thanks, Elder Grace for sharing your nuggets of wisdom, your insight on how to
budget, and how to focus on the prize for achieving the goals that is set before us. You
embraced the possible and confronted the impossible smiling while echoing the words
“God will come through he never fails…”
You challenged me, you pushed me, and you called me even when I did not want to
be called never ceasing until you got an answer. Your guidance and blueprints came
directly from God’s throne room.
Thank you for praying us through. The anointed olive oils and prayer shoal sending
them with instructions from the Lord indeed that was your signature of adornment.
HER ALTAR OF PRAYER WAS HER ALTAR OF POWER!
Today, Grace came face to face with GRACE! Your assignment is completed, and you
are so worthy of God’s eternal rest. You have labored with excellence; you have given a
stellar performance and never one day looking to see what you would get in return. You
knew that God’s pay day will come after a while.
Sleep on and take your eternal rest you have emptied yourself and now you are in the
arms of your Redeemer to receive your reward. Heaven has surely gained a Warrior!
Love always: Harcourt & Suzette Nixon

Good Morning Monique, Min Wells, Willie & Angie.
I lay in my bed this morning at 8.05am, and woke up with your mom on my mind.
And tears following just thinking of my personal interactions with her. I have
never met a woman like Elder Francis, she was the one God made and as we say he
through the mold away, She was a warrior. She believed and served in excellence.
The shoes she wore and are now in her closet, NO one can walk in them. She was
beautiful, smart and yes she didn’t stop until whatever assignment she was on it
was completed with a little extra. I saw and witnessed the love she had for her
husband, her girls, grands and sons in law.
Elder Grace will turn the world upside to ensure you all were happy, and things
were in place and business were in order. She wore many, many hats.
No doubt this is hard, heavy and shocking just thinking about her life, it gives
me peace, because I can say I walked, worked and worshipped with one if Jesus
disciples, and I comforted to know she is with him this morning. She got to meet
and love her Princess, and who said last night I can’t believe she died. We hold
great memories of your mom Ladies, carl myself and Halo. She will always be in
our hearts, and missed dearly.
Carl said when he saw a voice not from Elder Francis, you better drop what you’re
doing cause she on a mission, just a little humor Ladies, but that was her. Love you
Ladies and know that we love your mom so much! But she is singing, and dancing
in better place this morning.
Your legacy will live on. RIP Elder
Carl, Lesa & Halo Oliver

Her
Legacy

“Words of Gratitude”
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our family, friends and colleagues for your support
during our time of sorrow. Your prayers, telephone calls, condolences and other sympathetic gestures
gave us strength and courage to carry on.
Elder Grace Andrea Darling-Francis was an amazing and phenomenal woman and we are comforted
in knowing her love and kindness lives on in friends like you.
May God continue to bless you.
The Family
Pallbearers
Davado Darling
Gabriel John
Carl Oliver
Andra McIntyre
Otaus Knowles
Destin Pratt
Honorary Pallbearers
Elder Oswald Pinder
Bishop Chadwick James
Pastor Tyrone Sands
Pastor Henry Francis
Pastor Lawerence Arnette
Bishop James Darling
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