Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — With deep sadness and so much love, we announce the passing of Jaye Francis, who left us on May 11, 2025. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend—a true spark of joy in all our lives.
Jaye P. Francis (Barry), age 69, of Wilmington, MA, fondly known as “Jayebird” to her family and friends passed away peacefully at home on May 11, 2025, Mother’s Day, with her loving family at her side.
Jaye was born in Winchester, MA, on July 25, 1955; she was the cherished daughter of the late Edward and Helen (Rice) Barry. She was raised and educated in Woburn, MA and part of a large and loving family.
Jaye was the heartbeat of our family. She loved nothing more than spending time with her loved ones—whether it was a holiday, a shopping trip, or just a sunny afternoon spent watering her yard. She found joy in the everyday: a clean home, a blooming flower, a good laugh. And oh, did she love to laugh.
She was our family’s biggest prankster—always ready with a joke, a surprise, or a playful scheme. Her legendary cake fights became family traditions, and no one was safe from her good-natured mischief. Her laughter filled the room, and her joyful energy made everyone feel at ease.
Though she was a night owl, her light shined all day. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Jaye was the beloved wife and best friend of Wayne H. Francis, devoted mother of Tammy Francis of Wilmington, Wayne Francis, Jr. and companion Raychel Pappas of Wilmington, Shawn Francis and wife Amanda of Tewksbury, Laura Francis and companion Eric Creekmore of Wilmington, and Jillian Whitney and husband Michael of Gloucester. Loving “Nannie Fran” of Alexis Parsons, Drew Depalma, Kara Whitney, Jordyn Doyle, Jaelyn Creekmore, Kaycee Whitney, Harley Francis, Emma Francis, Joseph Whitney, Jesse Creekmore, Stephanie Francis, Zoey Francis and great-grandchildren Thomas and Jaxon Depalma. Dear sister of Jeanne Queen of Woburn, Janice Saulnier of Canada, Janie Francis of New Hampshire, she is pre-deceased by her siblings June Lombardo, Judy O’Connell, Jim Barry, Jerald Barry, Jackie Barry, and Joanie Monroe. Jaye is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.
We will miss her dearly but hold tight to the joy she brought into our lives. Her humor, heart, and kindness will live on in every smile she gave us.
Family and friends will gather for Visiting Hours at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA, on Tuesday, May 13th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass for Jaye will take place at St. Thomas of Villanova Church, 126 Middlesex Ave., Wilmington, MA, on Wednesday, May 14th at 10:30 a.m. followed by her interment in Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington, MA.
To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.
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