Francesca Yvonna Merritt

Francesca Yvonne Merritt, 44, of South Bend, Indiana was born on May 7, 1977 to the Union of Everett and Barbara Merritt. On June 11, 2021 at 7:40pm, she was called home by the Lord after battling with breast cancer.

She graduated in 1995 from Washington High School and furthered her career in the United States Army, serving over eight years. She attended Indiana University and Grambling State University receiving her bachelor’s degree in psychology. Francesca loved to teach, nurture, and live in the moment. She taught with the South Bend Community School Corporation for 10 years and worked at the Boys and Girls Club. Her favorite pastimes were trying new restaurants and traveling.  Her spirit was a source of inspiration and encouragement. Francesca was strong in her goals, in her family, and in her faith.  Her favorite scripture was Psalms 27:1“The Lord is the strength of my life.”

Francesca is survived by her parents, three beautiful daughters: Ashley Simmons, Mischa Smitherman, and Jahzmin Smitherman, all of South Bend, Indiana; Great Grandmother: Christine Merritt of South Bend, Indiana; Siblings: Andrea (Ronald) Agnew of Indianapolis, IN, Mary “Trudy” Merritt, Everett Merritt Jr., Both of South Bend, IN, and Tauana Fountain of Indianapolis, IN; An Uncle: Eugene Merritt; 3 nieces: Rohnea(Carlton), Latara, Ronaisha; 4 nephews: Dalsuade, Kiwane, Everett III, Ronald Jr.; 4 great nieces: Carvonna, Carletta, Ke’nora, Ke’anna; 4 great nephews: Carlton, Carshawn, Legend, Kiwane Jr.; A special aunt: Annie Lou Jackson; two special cousins: Tony Powell and Dominique Jackson Jr.; Ex-Husband: James Smitherman III; and special friends: Troy, Nyema, Shakila, Robin, Mimi, Johnnie, Eric

She was preceded in death by her Maternal Grandparents: Joe and Gertrude Coleman; Paternal Grandfather: George Merritt; Maternal Great Grandparents: Alton and Mary Bland; Paternal Great Grandparents: Jennie and Jesse Mallett; One Great Uncle: Robert Bland; One Uncle: Lawrence Merritt; One Nephew: Demetrius Merritt; and One Cousin; Dominique Jackson.

A Celebration of Life will take place in her honor on June 23, 2021 at 11 AM with a Viewing One-hour prior at Greater St. Mathew Church with Military Honors. Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to www.boydandsonfuneralhome.com where condolences can be shared.       

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