Dorthy Francis, 84, of Heber Springs, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 9, 2025. She was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, and spent much of her life in Memphis, Tennessee, where she built a life filled with love, adventure, and intellectual passion.

An avid bridge player, Dorthy co-authored the *Encyclopedia of Bridge* alongside her husband, Henry Francis, who served as its editor. Together, their love for the game took them across the world, sharing knowledge and forging lifelong friendships within the bridge community.

Beyond her devotion to bridge, Dorthy found joy in her garden, nurturing flowers with care and dedication—bringing beauty and life to those around her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Henry Francis; her sister, Beverly Kubiak; her daughters, Lisa Kim Hill and Leslie Nelson; and her parents, Dorthy and Chester Meeks.

She is lovingly remembered by her two sons, Michael Smith and William Nelson Jr.; her daughter, Jennifer Nelson; and a cherished host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Dorthy’s legacy of passion, kindness, and intellectual pursuit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.