NORWICH – Bertha Francis, 82, of Norwich, formerly of Cortland and Ithaca, passed away early Tuesday morning, Nov. 22, 2011, in the Chenango Memorial Hospital.
Bertha was born in McLean, the daughter of Gilbert and Mary Celia Bowker Francis in August of 1929. She grew up in the Moravia area and attended the local schools. Bertha was employed for thirty years at Cornell University as a supervisor for the Cornell University Press retiring in 1991.
Following her retirement Bertha enjoyed staying at home. She found enjoyment and solitude in spending time with family and painting. In August of 2004, she moved to Norwich to make her home with her sister.
Bertha is survived by her sister Celia Smith of Norwich; her 22 nieces and nephews; and several great nieces and great nephews. She is also survived by her extended family Jim, Brenda, Tucker and Andie Mucha of Norwich.
Bertha was predeceased by her sisters Lucinda Bell and Vivian Francis and her brothers Charles, Emmet, Carl, Clayton, Asaph, Leslie and Rowland.
Memorial services for Bertha will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday from the Broad St. United Methodist Church. The Rev. Jeff Hale, pastor, will offiicate. Interment will take place in the spring in the McLean Cemetery.
Arrangements are with the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.