Bea was one of Rev. Henry and Cora Ballard’s 10 children. As a faithful and loving wife to Charlie Francis for 70 years, they lived in the Overland Park and Prairie Village area since 1962 raising their four children: Carla Cooper (predeceased), Paul (predeceased), Dave (Overland Park, Kansas) and Steve (Stanley, Kansas).
Bea absolutely loved being “Grandma Bea” to her 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. She was always quick to meet each grandchild at the door when they visited making them feel deeply loved while pulling out snacks to eat around the pool. She also enjoyed tennis, travel and serving others as a realtor.
Bea and Charlie joyfully, tirelessly and generously served Leawood Baptist Church (now Hope Community Church) in many capacities and were founding members. They also were involved in many local mission efforts of the church and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Bea’s welcoming smile, joyful spirit and always positive outlook made her a popular dinner partner and caregiver favorite while living at Claridge Court. Her quick smile and “Hi’ya!” greeting to everyone she saw will be missed by many. The joy and peace that she so freely shared with everyone God put in her path, was simply a brilliant reflection of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Hope Community Church at 8200 State Line in Leawood, KS on Monday, July 18th at 2:30 p.m. A reception will be held at the church following the service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in honor of Bea to Hope Community Church at http://www.hopecommunitykc.org
