Arizona Francis

Arizona Blackburn Francis peacefully entered the presence of Jesus May 28, 2026, while surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on November 5, 1936, in Barneshea, Kentucky to Fred and Ella Blackburn. Arizona lived a life marked by steadfast faith, deep love of her family, and devoted to her church and community.

Arizona was widowed by her husband of 50 years, William James Francis, and missed him dearly. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Frances Delores Blackburn Reid, and her grandson, James Francis Sanders. 

She is survived by her children; Elizabeth (Larry) Sanders, Stephanie (Thomas Ellis) Lett, Roxanne (Carey) Puckett, Rhonda (David) Gray, and Paula (Jay) Clark, as well as 10 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, and 3 nieces and their families.

Arizona was a member of the Darbyville Community Church for many years and spent her life being a witness to others for her Lord and Savior. She was loved as a sister and mentor by many in her church and community.

Funeral visitation and service will be held at the Porter-Tidd Funeral Home, 331 West Main Street, Mt. Sterling, Ohio, on Monday, June 1, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10:00AM and end at 12:00PM for the funeral service to begin immediately following at 12:00PM.

Arizona's family would like to acknowledge the outstanding loving care at Logan Elm Health Care in Circleville, Ohio.