Ellen Francine Stewart

Ellen Francine Stewart passed away peacefully July 4, 2025 at 95 years of age.

She was born December 26, 1929, in Salt Lake City to Dr. Burtis F. Robbins and Edythe L. Christenson. The second of five children within just seven years, she deeply loved her parents and siblings. Her early years were spent in their home on B Street, next door to her beloved grandparents and later in their home on South Temple, moving each summer to the family farm in East Millcreek. “The farm,” was a beloved gathering place for extended family. She had a wonderful childhood, filled with art, culture, music and activities, coupled with the values of hard work. Francine often reflected on her dual upbringing. "During the school year,” she would say, “I was raised by an artist, musician and a surgeon. In the summer, I was raised by tireless farmers, all working from sunup to sundown.”

Francine was a gifted cellist and talented vocalist, performing in many recitals and productions as a teenager. At age 18 she fell in love with her sweetheart Bill. They became engaged just before he left on a mission to England for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. During his mission, Francine moved to New York City to study fashion design at the prestigious Parsons School of Design. She shared a New York apartment with her beloved Grandmother Christenson, an accomplished seamstress who brought many of Francine’s original fashion designs to life. Their time together in New York was a cherished chapter in her life.

After returning home, Francine received a Bachelor's Degree in Education from the University of Utah, and soon married Bill in the Salt Lake Temple for time and all eternity.

They had four children while beginning their life together in Utah, where Francine was on the staff of the Brigham Young University Salt Lake Center for Continuing Education teaching speech, drama and elocution under the direction of her mother-in-law, Professor Grace Nixon Stewart.

In 1967, the family relocated to San Jose California, where they lived near Bill’s brother Devirl, loving sister-in-law Jean and five fun-loving Stewart nieces and nephews. Francine continued her career, teaching elementary education, resource classes and art for 27 years. She also played a role in school administration and was instrumental in securing grants for public schools. She authored curriculum for the San Jose School District and was honored as Teacher of the Year for the entire district for her tireless dedication and innovation. Francine had a lifelong passion for creating beauty whether in her home, garden or classroom. Her creativity and love of learning touched countless lives. A highlight of several summers was traveling extensively with her sister Edythe to Japan, Europe and across the United States.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Francine loved writing, producing and directing musical productions for her LDS Stake. She often contributed her talents in vocal and speech performance and costume design.

After retiring, she and Bill returned to Utah, settling in Farmington. She rejoined her Sunday evening study group of over 60 years and spent the next 25 years gathering monthly with her siblings for a luncheon at each other's homes, a tradition filled with stories, laughter and connection. One of her favorite places was the family cabin in Logan Canyon, affectionately known as The Robbins Nest.

Francine and Bill found great joy serving together as ordinance workers in the Bountiful Temple. Her son Stephen lived with them for more than 50 years, as she lovingly cared for him. After Bill’s passing, she and Stephen continued to care for one another with tenderness. The untimely death from cancer of her eldest child Jim was heartbreaking. Before his passing he lovingly helped her compile her personal history that preserved her legacy, an act of deep devotion.

Her life was marked by serenity, grace, a peaceful presence, an artistic eye and a remarkable ability to listen intently with love and understanding. She believed in living and following Christ-like attributes every day of her life.

Francine was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Bill, her cherished son Jim, and two younger sisters, Elaine and Joanne. She is survived by her children; daughter-in-law Penee (Jim) Stewart, Stephen Stewart, Frank (Rhonda) Stewart, and Annette (Brent) Bell. She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren; James, Jason, Sherstin, Matthew, Nicholas, Justin, Ryan, Kristi Ann, Natalie, Stacey, Brooke and their spouses; and 24 four great-grandchildren; Carter, Zack, Coleman, Lincoln, Maisie, Jane, Charlie, Thomas, Sophia, Alex, Zoey, Hazel, Graham, Hudson, Jack, Brooks, Max, Laney, Addison, Remi, Beau, Nellie, Jay and Elle.

Funeral services will be held at the Compton Bench Chapel, located at 850 North 300 West, Farmington, Utah 84025. A viewing will take place at the chapel on Monday, the 14th, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., and again on Tuesday, the 15th, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., prior to the service.
The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday at the same location. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed via the Russon Mortuary Facebook page. A link to view the livestream will be shared here approximately 10–15 minutes before the service begins.