Hilda L. Francis, age 94 of Russia, Ohio, died peacefully on Thursday, January 18, 2024 surrounded by family at Fair Haven, Sidney, Ohio.

She was born on December 14, 1929 in Ft. Loramie, Ohio to the late William & Emma (Winner) Poeppelman. Upon the early passing of her mother Emma, Hilda and her siblings were blessed to be cared for by the late Clara Riethman. On January 4, 1951 she married Delbert "Doc" Francis of Russia at St. Michael Catholic Church, Ft. Loramie. He preceded her in death on July 30, 2009.

She is survived by six children: Debby & Dave Boerger, Orchard Lake, MI, John & Becky Francis, Ft. Loramie, Laura & Ron Simon, Russia, Joan & Michael Bergman, Russia, Sherry & Fred Sommer, Minster, Ken & Julie Francis, Russia, 19 grandchildren: Reggie Boerger, Stacey & Thomas Harless, Meghan & Jerry Gehret, Derek & Andrea Francis, Kara Francis & fiancé Ben Jacobs, Jessica & Tony Bergman, Brandon & Jen Simon, Danielle & Adam Grieshop, Michele & Andy Bensman, Melissa & Scott Armstrong, Mitchell & Kasey Bergman, Max & Jackie Bergman, Dustin & Lisa Sommer, Dane & Heather Sommer, Logan & April Sommer, Kayla & Chett Borchers, Lauren & Brett Meiring, Nolan & Avery Francis, and Carter Francis, 41 great grandchildren & 2 on the way, sister-in-law Verona Poeppelman, New Bremen, in-laws Rita & Ralph Schulze, Russia, along with numerous nieces, nephews and special friends.

She was preceded in death by 2 infant granddaughters, 2 infant grandsons, 1 infant great granddaughter, siblings and spouses: Norbert & Pauline Poeppelman, Herbert & Dorothy Poeppelman, Victoria & Paul Eilerman, Elmer Poeppelman, Edward & Jean Poeppelman, Mary & Lindy Hoying, Katy & Jack Mestemaker.

Hilda was a 1947 graduate of Ft. Loramie High School. She was a member of St. Remy Catholic Church. Hilda especially enjoyed her weekly fellowship with friends at the Gathering Place. Hilda, who lost both parents at a young age, learned the importance of family, the value of hard work, and how to make a lot out of a little.

She was very creative and became an amazing seamstress. Her gift of artistry was apparent in every bow she drew on every birthday card she sent. Her love of the outdoors was obvious as her passion for flowers could be enjoyed by all those who drove by. Her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were her pride and joy. Hilda definitely made this world a more beautiful place for all of us.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 AM on Thursday, January 25, 2024 at St. Remy Catholic Church, Russia with burial to follow in St. Remy Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Hogenkamp Funeral Home in Russia on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 from 3 to 7 PM and on Thursday, January 25 from 9:00 to 9:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Joseph Village Center formerly The Gathering Place 201 W. Main St. Russia, OH 45363.   

Condolences may be left at www.hogenkampfh.com.