Erma Lynn Francioni

February 23, 1945 - January 20, 2021

For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. 1 John 5:4 ESV On Wednesday, January 20, 2021, Erma Lynn Francioni (75), daughter of the late Eldred and Mildred Backus, had victory! Erma was born on February 23, 1945, in Rand, West Virginia. She later relocated to make her final home in this world in Bear, Delaware. Erma is survived by her husband, Martin David Francioni; daughter, Cheryl Lynn Kirkpatrick (Dale); son, Anthony David Francioni; and granddaughter, Jenna Lynn Kirkpatrick. Erma had five siblings: Wetzel Backus (predeceased), Shelvey Backus, Mayzella Braswell, Norman Backus (predeceased), and Joyce Boyd. Erma was also a beloved foster mother to many foster children from approximately 1980-1985 at a group home sponsored by the Newark Church of Christ. Erma continued to maintain a life-long relationship with Tom and Alex Duzan, John and Robert Hutcheson, and Lisa (Davis) Ciconte. Erma also cherished her numerous nephews and nieces from her five siblings. Erma was first and foremost a servant of Christ. She worshiped at the Newark Church of Christ, enjoyed teaching Sunday School, and loved her church family dearly. She was also a wife and loving mother. She particularly enjoyed cooking for her family, which will be missed by all. Her passion for serving children and their families was fulfilled by her time working as teacher and Child Care director at Aletheia Child Care and School. She was fondly referred to as "Ms. Erma." Upon the closing of Aletheia Child Care and School in 2010, Ms. Erma found a new place to serve at Lil' Einstein's Learning Academy. She worked every day she could at Lil' Einstein's Learning Academy until no longer able. Erma is also fondly remembered for her love of sports. She especially enjoyed following the Philadelphia Eagles, West Virginia Mountaineers, Phillies, and Flyers. She had a special love and compassion for cats. Not only was she a "cat mom" to many of her own feline companions, she provided care for many feral cats over the years. A private family burial will occur at a later date at Odd Fellows Cemetery in Oak Hill, West Virginia. The family appreciates any memories that are shared. To send an online condolence, visit www.stranofeeley.com (Photo: Taken New Years Eve 2020. Posing for her granddaughter, Jenna, who is a graduate student at UVA.)