Lola Margaret Francis, age 95, passed away on Tuesday, November 1, 2016, in Rapid City, SD.

Lola was born on October 29, 1921, near Dalton, NE, to Archie and Mildred Johnson. At a young age she moved with her family to Bennett County, SD. She attended school there graduating from Martin High School in 1938. She furthered her education by attending the Black Hills State Teachers College in Spearfish, SD.

Lola taught school in Bennett County for two years and then joined the Navy. Her military service included being an Aviation Machinist Mate in Norman, OK. She married Lyle E Francis in 1943, and had five children: John E Francis (Jimmie) of Glennallen, AK; Carol A Stutzman (Gary) of San Marcos, CA; Lorna M Walgren (Craig) of Hot Springs, SD; Clark E Francis (deceased 2011); and Bruce L Francis (deceased 1958).

Lola enjoyed living near Tuthill, SD; Hot Springs, SD; Rock Springs, WY; and back to Hot Springs for retirement. She was a member of various afternoon clubs, Eastern Star and Rebeccas. Lola's hobbies were crocheting, knitting and making pottery.

Lola is survived by her three children; four grandchildren, Aaron Walgren, Corby Stutzman, Shawn Francis (Randi), Jay Francis (Brittany); three great grandchildren, Clara Francis, Luke Francis, and Grace Francis.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Lyle; sons, Bruce and Clark; son-in-law, Craig Walgren; grandson, Clay Stutzman; and her brother, Myron Johnson (Lucile).

Funeral services will be held on 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 8, 2016, at Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home in Hot Springs with Pastor Clint Walker Officiating. Interment will be 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 8, 2016, in Martin, SD, with a reception to follow at the American Legion in Martin.