Francine was born March 24, 1946, in Nashville, Tenn., to William Francis Wahl and Hazel Morrell Wahl.
She graduated from Decatur High School and earned a bachelor's degree in English from Florence State College (now the University of North Alabama). Francine married Edward Lee Johnson, who lived two blocks away, in 1966. They remained together until his death in 2021.
In addition to rearing three children, Francine developed award-winning quilting skills and created quilts for every member of her extended family. She volunteered her knitting talents to help fellow breast cancer patients be more comfortable in recovery. She also volunteered for years at Wheeler Basin Regional Library, in the Bookmobile, and in the library at Central Baptist Church. She also gave her time and ears at Hands Across Decatur.
Francine was preceded in death by her parents and her husband. She is survived by her children: Mandy Heller (Court) of Huntsville; Missy George (Mark) of Knoxville, Tenn.; and Bill Johnson (Becca) of Soddy-Daisy, Tenn.; five grandchildren: Andrew Johnson, Emily Johnson, Kirby Johnson (Kenzie); Elizabeth Johnson and Ellie Johnson; a sister, Cathy Tackett (Jack) of Huntsville; and a brother, Mike Wahl (Cathy).of Decatur.
Francine's family will receive friends at Roselawn Funeral on Friday, April 11, 2025, from 1 to 2 p.m., with graveside service at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hands Across Decatur, 1027 Fifth Ave. SE, Decatur AL 35601, or Hospice of the Valley, P.O. Box 2745 Decatur, AL 35602.
