From Mansfield News
December 17, 1920

Mrs. Rachel France, one of the oldest persons living in Richland county, died at 2:30 o�clock this morning at her home, 42 west Second street. She celebrated her ninety-first birthday last May, and the passing of this good woman is mourned by those who have come to know that her contribution to her generation was one of great worth and blessing.

Born near Lucas, in 1829, her maiden name was Rachel Ross. Her marriage to Enoch H. France took place in 1851, and she was the mother of five children. Of her descendants, two sons, N. R. France, of Bloomville, and William G. France, of Toledo, 14 grandchildren and great grandchildren survive her.

For many years, Mrs. France resided at Bloomville, where her husband operated extensive stone quarries. During recent years, however, she had made her home in Mansfield, where the family of her son, Ira E. France, was living.

Mrs. France was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian church. Her activities in recent years have been limited on account of the fact that she had lost her eyesight. She retained her interest in the affairs of daily life to the last. Her interest in her children and her children�s children was a matter of daily thought and prayer. She was a noble Christian woman, with a strong faith in God and with a loving heart of hospitality.

A recent organization of the First Presbyterian church is known as the Westminster guild. Its purpose is to study the subject of Christian missions. When the local chapter was organized, it was given the name of Rachel France chapter in her honor.

Funeral arrangements have not been completed.

Obituary provided by Jean Pritchard Wheeler