Andrea passed away 9/9/2010
Feb. 6, 1955 – Sept. 2, 2010
Andrea “Andy” Francis, whose personal battle with breast cancer led her to become an inspirational activist in fundraising for cancer research and cures, died at her South Wales home surrounded by family on Thurs., Sept. 2, 2010. She was 55.
Born Feb. 6, 1955 in Sharon, Conn., she was raised in Buffalo, graduating from Amherst High School. She obtained a master’s degree in science from Syracuse University, and a master’s degree in medical illustration. Some of her works are on display at the Smithsonian Institution.
Mrs. Francis lived a life filled with passion and creativity. As a young woman, she studied art in the south of France and equestrian skills in England. She lived in Canada from 1981 to 1995 and created a successful business, Capital Wreath Corporation, with offices in New York and Atlanta. In 2001, she married Timothy Francis and started a design and decorating business in South Wales, The Queen Bee.
She was an avid art collector. She also loved to cook and entertain and was known for her lavish dinner parties. An exquisite gardener, she and her husband Tim worked together to build extensive gardens, including curving stone walls, massive stone piazzas and draping pergolas. The handsome stone refuge they built together will forever grace their home in South Wales as a testament to their love and devotion, said Mr. Francis.
An adventurous traveler and camper, she loved the beaches of St. John, the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, the Galapagos Islands, taking motorcycle tours through Europe and America, and snowboarding. “Andrea’s zest for life illuminated everything she did,” said Mr. Francis.
She is survived by her husband, Tim Francis of South Wales; two children, Bartholomew Nadherny of Washington, D.C., and Justine Nadherny of Buffalo; one stepson, Alexander Francis; and her father, Dr. Edward (late Frances) Crohn of Buffalo.
In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her brother, Dr. Theodore (survived by Terry) Crohn.
Friends are invited to attend a celebration of her life at the family residence on Fri., Sept. 10 at 4:30 p.m. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Buffalo, 225 Como Park Boulevard, Buffalo, NY 14227-1480.
Arrangements were made by Comfort Funeral Home of South Wales/East Aurora.