Francoise M Lacroix (nee Heitschel), 94, of Gonic NH, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 27th 2026. She was born on September 5th 1931 in Pontoise, France. She was the daughter of Louis Heitschel and Madeleine Poggi.

Born and raised in France, Francoise childhood was shaped by culture, tradition and the hardships of World War II. Those years shaped the remarkable resilience, quiet strength, and appreciation for life’s simple blessings that she carried with her throughout her life. After her formal education she became a secretary at the famous cooking school “Le Cordon Bleu” in Paris, France. In 1952, with incredible courage and a spirit of adventure, she left her homeland and came to America, ready to build a new life.

Francoise embraced every opportunity America offered which allowed her to create a life filled with love, hard work, and perseverance. She was a devoted mother who worked tirelessly to provide for her family and ensure those she loved had opportunities to succeed. She was immensely proud to become a United States Citizen-a moment she considered one of the greatest honors of her life. Her strength and dedication were an inspiration to all but it was her gentle and compassionate heart that touched so many. She never judged others and always looked for the good in people. She welcomed everyone with kindness, acceptance, and understanding, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her. She also had a deep love for animals, especially her fur babies throughout her life. Champie, Benny, and Molly brought her great joy and comfort.

She is predeceased by her parents, her sister Anne Larvet and her husband Claude, her brother Jean Louis Heitschel and her companion of many years Phil Dupont.

She is survived by a daughter Dominique Wilson and her husband Robert; a son Daniel Lacroix and his wife Donna. Four grandchildren; Christian Blais and his wife Christine, Ryan Blais, Megan Gregoire and her husband Jeffrey, Michelle Barnes and her husband Michael. Five great grandchildren that were truly her pride and joy Jackson Gregoire, Riley Blais, Madeline Gregoire, Joshua Blais and Thomas Barnes. She is survived by a sister Christine Hermet and her husband Claude, as well as nephews and nieces in France. She leaves behind her dear friends Terry, Heather, Lisa, Paul and many others.

The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff at Langdon Place in Dover, who cared for Francoise with such compassion, dignity and kindness. Their gentle support and dedication will always be deeply appreciated and remembered.

A funeral service will be held in the Edgerly Funeral Home Chapel, 86 S. Main St Rochester, NH on Saturday August 15, 2026. Calling hours will be at 9:30 am and a memorial service will begin at 10:00am. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvaire Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Gonic, N.H.

Flowers are welcome, or in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Francoise's name may be made to St. Judes or Pope Memorial Humane Society of Dover, N.H.