Shirley Francis

Shirley Marie Taranto Francis died peacefully on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 83. Born on January 26, 1941, in Biloxi, Shirley grew up surrounded by the love of her family and graduated from Sacred Heart High School in 1958. She continued her education at Perkinston Community College, where she showcased her athletic talents on the basketball court. In 1962, Shirley met the love of her life, Michael, in the Gulf Towers pool, beginning a beautiful love story that led to their marriage on June 8, 1963, at Nativity B.V.M. Cathedral. As an "Air Force wife," Shirley embraced a life of adventure, traveling the globe with Michael while raising their family wherever his career took them. In 1981, the Francis family settled in Riverside, CA, where Shirley and Michael spent nearly 40 years. Riverside became the backdrop for countless family milestones, from their daughters' high school graduations and weddings to their grandchildren's baptisms. During this time, Shirley earned her Realtor's License and embarked on a successful career in real estate. Her southern grace, integrity, and professionalism endeared her to clients, making her a top producer at her company each year. Despite her time in California, Shirley's heart always drew her back to Biloxi, especially during the Mardi Gras season. Her impressive collection of beads was a testament to her deep connection to the festivities and her hometown. Shirley's laughter was contagious, and she was known for her dedication to keeping everyone she loved safe, creating a sense of comfort and security wherever she went. When Michael retired, Shirley joined him in exploring Europe, with Italy holding a special place in her heart, particularly their cherished trip to Ustica, where she reconnected with her ancestral roots and met her Italian family. A passionate genealogist, Shirley immersed herself in the rich history of her Taranto lineage and Tiblier family roots in Biloxi, meticulously preserving her heritage for future generations. In 2020, Shirley and Michael relocated to Tulsa, OK, where they enjoyed precious time together before Michael's passing in 2022. In her final years, Shirley lived in a memory care facility, where she received loving care from her eldest daughter, Mary, and passed away surrounded by family.

Shirley is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, Michael R. Francis; her parents, Julius and Wilda Tiblier Taranto; her brother, Julius "Scooter" Taranto Jr.; and many cherished cousins and family members. She is survived by her brothers, Jerry Taranto (Ora Lee) and Micheal Taranto (Kathy). She also is survived by her daughters, Mary Jo Tasker (Treak), Elanor Capuano (Nick), and Lisa Fanslau (Edmund, Jr.), who affectionately carry on her legacy. 

Shirley was the epitome of a devoted "Maw Maw" to her eight grandchildren: Will (Rylea), JT (Bailey), and Joe Tasker; Michael and Kelly Capuano; Edmund III, Dominic, and Mary Fanslau. In April 2024, Shirley's grandson JT and his wife, Bailey, welcomed her first great-grandchild, Tommy Tasker. This blessing would have undoubtedly filled her heart with immense joy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Nativity B.V.M. Cathedral on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 11 a.m., with family and friends invited to gather at 10 a.m. Shirley and Michael will rest together at the Old Biloxi Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, Howard Avenue in Biloxi. Shirley's warmth, grace, and unwavering love for her family and Biloxi will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her. Shirley will always be our “Mississippi Queen”.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Shirley Marie Taranto Francis.