Lystra Maureen Francis

Lystra Maureen Francis (née Stephen), lovingly called “Lissy”, “Lisa”, “Pancho”, was born on May 18, 1959 in San Fernando, Trinidad. She was the fifth of eight children born to Boysie Knolly Stephen and Ineze Douglas Stephen.  Lissy migrated to the United States in May 1989.

Lystra married Anthony Francis (deceased) on March 2, 2001. Lissy was the apple of God’s eye, for she touched many lives with her charm and great sense of humor.  There was never a dull moment when she was around as she always had a joke to tell, often reminiscing on her youthful days growing up in Palmyra Village.

She was the “second mother” to her many nieces and nephews. She loved children and could be given a medal for raising an entire brood.  A strict disciplinarian, she ensured that all entrusted under her care were raised with respect, good manners and proper self-care. She was a great storyteller, famous for her “Dinninado and Kakarajie” story which she created and told to all in detail. 

A stickler for cleanliness and neatness, she took pride in her appearance and surroundings.  She is the originator of “Self-Care Saturday” as she spent hours taking her beauty bath on Saturday, perfecting the art of eyebrow shaving, nail polishing and extensive skin care routines over the many years.  She had a knack for home decorating and organization, and often looked forward to sprucing up her living space.

Lissy was an avid reader, collector and listener of R&B and gospel music. At one point, she prided herself in reading at least four books in a week. All her books could be resold as she took great care of them.  Her cleaning sprees started with her music, often singing along word for word to every tune.

Lissy transitioned this life on Sunday, September 27, 2020.  God saw her pains and trials and said it was time for her to be forever with Him.  She leaves to cherish her memories, seven siblings: Carol, Lloyd, Kathleen, Joy, Annette, Cheryl-Ann and Allison; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.