Betty Anne (Fischer) Francis, died on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, surrounded by family at her residence at the Mayflower Community in Grinnell.

Betty Anne was born on December 24, 1928, in Atlantic City, New Jersey, the second child and first daughter of Charles W. and Edna (Alderfer) Fischer. Upon her birth, a new dahlia cultivar, the Betty Anne pompon dahlia, was named in her honor. She spent her childhood in the family home located above her father's thriving florist business in central Atlantic City. Betty Anne pursued higher education at Cornell University in New York where, at her family's urging, she earned a bachelor's degree in plant physiology. While in college, Betty Anne met Edward Earl Francis, a student at neighboring Colgate University, and the two were united in marriage on June 8, 1952 in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Betty Anne's warm, generous, and sparkling spirit drew others to her. She and Ed lived much of their lives in communities in New York State, Schenectady, Freeport, and more than 20 years in New Rochelle. On Ed's retirement they made their home in Syracuse, New York and with Ed's declining health, Betty Anne relocated to Grinnell, Iowa to be closer to her family. In each community where Betty Anne made her home, she accumulated countless close friends.

Betty Anne was authentically interested in everyone. She thrived on engaging in conversation about current events and discovering the unique qualities, interests, and joys of others. When not otherwise absorbed in raising their three sons, Betty Anne worked as a floral designer and as a bank assistant. She devoted her volunteer hours to the Alzheimer's foundation and to tirelessly working for women's reproductive rights. Her true passions were art and humanity. Infinitely curious, and a skilled artist, Betty Anne was also an insatiable reader. She surrounded herself with books and was lively in mind until the day of her passing. Betty Anne adored her grandchildren. She will be remembered by her family for her absolute and unwavering love.

Betty Anne is survived by her three sons, Charles Paul (Gail) Francis of Geneva, IL, Scott Ellsworth (Irene Somyk) Francis of Baltimore, Maryland, and Clayton Alderfer (Ann Ellis) Francis of Grinnell, Iowa; two granddaughters, Brianna R. Francis of Denver, Colorado and Sarah W. Francis of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and one grandson, Benjamin E. Francis of St. Paul, Minnesota. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her siblings, Charles W. Fischer, Jr., and Frances (Fischer) Michael.

Those who wish to honor her memory are encouraged to plant, care for, and enjoy a Betty Anne pompon dahlia. Memorials may be designated to Planned Parenthood and to the Mayflower Community Human Needs Fund and mailed in care of the Smith Funeral Home and Crematory, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112. Memories and condolences may be shared with Betty Anne's family online at www.smithfh.com.