Sherla Thompson

Sherla Kay Francis passed peacefully in her sleep on November 14, 2025, at the age of 78 at the Paradise Creek Nursing Home in Moscow where she had lived since early April. Born on December 12, 1946, in Moscow, Idaho. She graduated from Moscow High School in 1965.

She worked in several local establishments over the years, including Wade's Cafe, the Wren House, the Mark IV, Rosauers, and Walmart, from which she ultimately retired. Her outgoing personality and friendliness left a lasting impression on those who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Mom was full of spunk and humor, attributes she undoubtedly honed while navigating life alongside her husband, Phil Francis, whom she married on April 20, 1965. They shared a deep bond over their many years together before his passing in 2007. They loved to travel, often heading for Arizona and warmer weather when it was cold here at home. Sometimes they would hop in the pickup and end up in Montana for lunch - just a spontaneous day trip!

Among many cherished memories are the countless Mother’s Day celebrations spent on Moscow Mountain for over 50 years, where she enjoyed picking mushrooms and playing in the snow with four-wheelers and SXSs with her children and grandchildren. We also treasured the spring break trips to Arizona during our childhood.

Mom embraced life to the fullest. She had a zest for adventure, she loved playing bingo, attending car shows, traveling, reading, and spending time with family. Those who knew her will remember her great sense of humor and how she was always ready for a new experience.

She is survived by her close companion, Steve Steffen; her daughter, Lagene Taylor, and son-in-law, John of Viola; her son, Steve Francis, and daughter-in-law, Mary of Genesee; her siblings Mert Thompson of Moscow, Mike Thompson (Ann) of Moscow, and Carla Bingman (Randy) of Portland, OR; her grandchildren, Charlie Taylor, Justin Taylor, Jamie Ericson (Russ), and Jessica Hanson; her great-grandchildren, Xyla and Amber, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Phil; her mother, Mabel; her father, JT; and her brother, Jerry.

A memorial service honoring mom’s life will be held in the spring, on April 20, 2026, at 2 PM at Short's Funeral Chapel, a date that holds special meaning as it would have been mom and dads 61st wedding anniversary. Moms legacy will continue to inspire and comfort all who were fortunate enough to know her. In lieu of flowers/gifts please donate to the Humane Society of the Palouse, 2019 E White Ave, Moscow, Idaho 83843.

Since I became a widow in October 2007, I have sold the home Phil and I had and moved into Moscow.  I am in a 2 bedroom senior apartment.  I don't have to worry about mowing lawns or shoveling snow.  I often babysit my 3 yr old great-granddaughter -- what a joy.

Son Steve and Daughter Lagene.

Spouse: Phil Francis - Passed away in October 15, 2007 (too damned soon!)

Retired:   2008

Kids:

Daughter, Lagene Taylor, 46

Son, Steve Francis, 44

I also have two step-daughters, 7 step-grandchildren and 5 Great-Great-grandchildren

-- now that makes me feel old!