Rita Millhouse Francis (11/8/1934 - 2/13/2023)

Rita Millhouse Francis was born on November 8, 1934 in Piqua, OH to the late Alfred and Jennie (Bausman) Millhouse. She married Marvin J. Francis on June 18, 1955. He preceded her in death on July 5, 2022. Marvin and Rita raised their children in Casstown, OH before making Bowling Green, OH their home for the past four years. Their children include Michael R. Francis; Ann F. McVey, both of Bowling Green, OH; and Amy J. (Philip) Goldstein of Timnath, CO. Rita's children were the center of her world and she was at peace with all three at her side when she passed.

Rita is survived by siblings Emma (Jan) Barts of Geneseo, ILL and Lowell Millhouse of Brookville, OH. She was preceded in death by son-in-law, Douglas McVey. Also preceding her in death were siblings Clyde Millhouse; George Millhouse; Mary Courtaway; Phyllis Dickerson; Beatrice Burton; Ronald Millhouse; Lawrence (Scrub) Millhouse; and Andrew Millhouse.

Aside from Rita's deep religious convictions, perhaps it was growing up in a large family that shaped her life the most. She learned the value of giving, sharing, supporting, and making sacrifices for the good of all. She always put others before herself. She was kind and compassionate to family, friends, and strangers alike. She learned to laugh and to find the silver lining. One of her favorite reminders to others was 'Inch by inch, life's a cinch'.

Rita cherished her grandchildren Candra (Adam) Carr of Coldwater, MI; Thomas Francis of Decator, GA; Jeff (Tracey) McVey of West Chester, OH; Lindsey (Andrew) Krontz of Bowling Green, OH; and Jennie (Howard) McNier of Nashville, TN. Rita was also over-the-moon crazy about her great-grandchildren Madison and Tyler McVey; Kip and Cole Krontz; and Marlow McNier.

Rita held a special place in her heart for all children. Especially endearing to the children in her family are memories of her dedication at all events, including braving unfavorable weather during outdoor sports for nearly 50 years. She added a spark during vacations, particularly at the beach. To the delight of her grandchildren, she could be seen crashing the waves or braving an attack by the seagulls when delivering their favorite snack. Rita was also well known for cooking for a crowd during camping trips. She was a talented seamstress who somehow found time to sew everything from church clothes, to Barbie clothes, to corn-hole bags. Most notable were the dresses she made for her granddaughters. No one will ever forget the time she magically turned curtains into darling dresses.

Rita was a life-long member of Lostcreek United Church of Christ where she continued her passion for children. She provided leadership for children's programs and spent many, many years as a Sunday School teacher. Rita's love of children was apparent in her career as well. She was a beloved secretary at Casstown Elementary for 25 years where she comforted countless children through their fevers, bumps, and bruises.

It was in Bowling Green that Rita met Becky Kline, a care-giver who quickly became her friend. Becky brought a sense of humor, feisty personality, and infectious laughter that Rita thoroughly enjoyed. For this we are forever grateful. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you Becky.

The family would also like to extend a heart-felt thank you to Hospice of Northwest Ohio for their kind, compassionate, and caring service during this final chapter of Rita's life.

A celebration of Rita's life will be held on February 20th at Lostcreek United Church of Christ with Pastor Jason Egbert officiating. Visitation in the sanctuary and fellowship in the social room will begin at 11:00 am. The service will follow in the sanctuary at noon. Following the service, Rita will be reunited with her husband as she is laid to rest at Casstown Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to:

Lostcreek United Church of Christ (7007 E. Troy-Urbana Road, Casstown, OH 45312)

Hospice of Northwest Ohio (30000 East River Road, Perrysburg, OH 43551); or online at (https://www.hospicenwo.org/forms/donate-online-today)

Condolences may be expressed to the family through www.bairdfuneralhome.com

Lostcreek United Church of Christ
7007 E. Troy-Urbana Road, PO Box 204, Casstown OH 45312

Hospice of Northwest Ohio
30000 East River Road, Perrysburg OH 43551
Web: http://www.hospicenwo.org/forms/donate-online-today