Leslie A. Farnam, 68
Dateline: Mendon, MA
Leslie A. (Francis) Farnam, age 68, of Mendon, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loved ones, on Thursday, August 28, 2025. She was the beloved wife of the late John E. Farnam, with whom she shared sixteen years of marriage until his passing on January 1, 2000, and the devoted partner of Robert Loftus, with whom she spent many happy years.
Born in Boston, MA, on February 13, 1957, she is survived by her cherished daughter, Dr. Meaghan A. Farnam, DVM, and her husband, Jeffrey Bellows, of Medway. She was the proud and cherished grandmother of Madison and John, who brought her immeasurable happiness. The loving daughter of the late Ann M. (Murphy) Francis, Leslie is survived by her father, Robert W. Francis, and his longtime partner, Maryellen Ryder of Port Charlotte, Florida.
She was the dear sister of Michael Francis and his partner, Dr. Michael Melendez, PhD, of Jamaica Plain; Brian Francis and his wife, Laura, of Onset; and Mark Francis of Florida. She also leaves behind several loving nieces, a nephew, a great-niece, and a great-nephew.
Leslie is also survived by Robert Loftus’ daughters, Kimberly Loftus, Leighann Fisher, Lori Loftus, and Kelly Williams as well as their children Bretton, Cameron, Alexys, Rylie, Tatum, Jace, and Nathan.
Leslie grew up in the Roslindale neighborhood of Boston and was a 1974 graduate of St. Clare High School. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Fitchburg State College. Leslie worked for more than ten years as a bacteriologist for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Leslie’s greatest joy, however, came from her family. A devoted homemaker, she poured her heart into her home. She treasured every moment spent with her loved ones, whether enjoying summers in Onset, dining out, or hosting family and friends during the holidays.
A resident of Mendon for over twenty years, with several years also spent living in Georgia, Leslie remained deeply connected to her community. She was a faithful communicant of the former Saint Michael’s Church in Mendon.
Her Funeral Mass, to which relatives and friends are cordially invited, will be celebrated on Friday, September 5th, at 11:00 A.M. in Saint Mary’s Church, 330 Pratt Street (Route 106), Mansfield. Burial will follow in Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Mansfield.
Visiting hours have been omitted. Those wishing to honor Leslie’s memory may do so with a donation to the ALS Association Massachusetts Chapter, 200 Friberg Parkway, Suite 1000, Westborough, MA 01581.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Sherman & Jackson Funeral Home, 55 North Main Street, Mansfield.