It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend Judith Kay Dezarn Hall Francis, on June 22, 2026, at the age of 85. She passed peacefully at her home in North Port, FL, surrounded by her loved ones.

Born in Danville, IL, she lived a life full of laughter, love, and unwavering strength. As a young lady, Judy’s working career consisted of TRW in Hoopeston, IL, General Electric in Danville, IL and Lockhart Sales in Wellington, IL. A few years later, her & Junior Hall opened a small restaurant named J&J’s Lunch on Main St. They then sold the restaurant and became the proud owners of J&J’s Trucking in Hoopeston, IL. In 1985, she moved to Fort Myers, FL where her and Junior became the owners of a small convenience store with a deli named The Little Farm Market on McGregor Blvd until she finally retired. After her 1st husband passed, she remarried and continued to live a fulfilling life with Vernon Francis where they moved to a home in North Port, FL. During this time, they spent time on the water in their boat fishing, having lunch together and spending quality time together until her final days.

Judy is survived by her loving husband of 22 years Vernon Francis; sisters June Newman and Shirley Nolan; daughters Pamela McLain (Thomas-deceased) and Teletha Hall (Diana Salinas), grandchildren; DeAnna Batts (James), Danielle Williams (Dennis) and Davan McLain (Lauren); several great grandchildren and several other family and friends. She was preceded in death by her 1st husband George Junior Hall; mother Helen Brown (Jay); sisters Dorothy Weber, Doris Brier, Pat Brown; and brother Wiley Dezarn Jr. whom she now joins in heavenly peace.

Though she may no longer walk beside us, Judy’s love, lessons, and legacy will remain with us always. We find comfort in knowing that her beautiful soul is now at peace, and her story continues through each life she touched.

Graveside services to be held at Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston, IL on Friday, September 4, 2026, at 11:00am.