Formerly of Mount Forest, passed away peacefully at Royal Terrace Retirement Residence, Palmerston, on Saturday, November 27, 2021, in her 81st year. Predeceased by her beloved husband LaVerne Francis. Loving mother of Blair Francis and his wife Karen of Mississauga, Ian Francis and his wife Kim, and Brad Francis, all of Mount Forest. Cherished grandmother of the late James Allan (1993), Liam (Jennie), Tyler (Shaelynne), Jackson and Jason. Dear sister of Muriel Allen and her late husband Bob of Dundalk, Ruth Penwarden and her husband Jim of Mount Forest, and Brian McQuarrie and his wife Elizabeth of Stratford. Survived also by many nephews, nieces, and their families. Velda was predeceased by her second husband Mervyn Kirkpatrick. She will be missed by Mervyn’s children: David, Linda, and Stephen and their families. Velda was very active in her community and enjoyed the many lasting friendships she made. She volunteered her time with the United Church Women, Mount Forest Lawn Bowling Club, Mount Forest Seniors Group, Mount Forest Archives, Mount Forest Kinsmen Club, and the Mount Forest Curling Club. Visitation will be held at the England Funeral Home, 294 Main Street South, Mount Forest, on Thursday, December 2 from 2:00 – 4:00pm and 7:00 – 9:00pm. To attend the visitation, proof of double vaccination and photo identification is required. No appointment is necessary. Masks are mandatory and Covid protocols are in place. The funeral service will be held at Mount Forest United Church, 175 Queen Street East, Mount Forest, on Friday, December 3, 2021 at 10:30am with visitation one hour prior to the service. To attend the funeral service, proof of double vaccination and photo identification is required. No reservation is necessary. Masks are mandatory and Covid protocols are in place. Private spring interment in Ventry Cemetery. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Velda are asked to consider the Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation. England Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.
