Linden Francis

Linden Francis, 86, of Independence, Missouri, passed away October 26, 2026, after a very brave battle with cancer. He was born September 15, 1940, to Linden and Nellie Francis, in Kansas City, Missouri. He worked for GMAD-Leeds KCMO for 31 and 2/10’s years. After retirement he headed to his favorite place ever, Truman Lake, in Warsaw, Missouri. He enjoyed living in the cabin he built with help from neighbors that became family and many UAW friends needing a place to hunt, fish and sleep in the Screen House.

Linden, along with his wife Connie of 51 years, enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, teaching grands how to hunt, fish, swim, tube, camp and eat S’mores. A life he enjoyed to the fullest.

Linden said good-bye long ago to his father Linden Sayers; stepdad Alva Francis; mom Nellie Francis Resch; son Christopher FitzGerald; nephew Michael Francis, a proud Navy veteran, many cherished aunts and uncles.

His granddaughter Samantha FitzGerald and grandson Caleb Gotway were sure to have welcomed their Papa with many hugs and smiles.

Linden leaves behind his wife of 51 years, Connie L Francis, Independence, Missouri; daughter Vicki O’Brien and husband Dan, Lee’s Summit, Missouri; son Vince Francis and partner Greg, Port Charlotte, Florida; stepson Bob Gotway and wife Melisa, Campobello, South Carolina; granddaughter Danielle FitzGerald and wife Nicole, Kansas City, Missouri; grandson Nolan Gotway and wife, Felecia, Lee’s Summit, Missouri, granddaughter Chloe Chiarelli and husband, Anthony, Campobello, South Carolina; grandson Dr. Joseph O’Brien and wife Emily, North Kansas City, Missouri; grandson Nick FitzGerald and wife Taylor, Toledo, Ohio; granddaughter Erin Myer and husband John, Tonopah, Arizona; great granddaughter Elaina Chiarelli and great grandson Augustus Chiarelli, both from Campobello, South Carolina; great granddaughter Maeve O’Brien, North Kansas City, Missouri; and great granddaughter Finnley FitzGerald, due any minute, Kansas City, Missouri. Linden also leaves his brother Ray Francis and wife Cindy, Greenwood, Arkansas; sister Patty Francis Clark and JR Clark, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; and nieces Amy, Sara and nephew Daniel. His was fortunate and truly blessed to also leave behind his beloved “Lake Family” and “bonus” grands and great grands.

Linden has been surrounded by many family members and friends who have prayed and helped to watch over him. Much love and special thanks to cousins, Chet and Deanna Posey for always sharing their love, time and deer stands… and their chili dogs and chili dogs with cheese.

Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.