Cecile "Cis" Francisco Barrett
Cecile "Cis" Francisco Barrett passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025, in Signal Mountain, Tennessee. She was born on December 13, 1930, in Brushfork, West Virginia, to Wilda and Earl Francisco.

Among her many roles, Cis was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend. Her love for the Lord, her family, and her community formed the foundation of her life. She gave generously of her time and energy, serving both her church and her community for decades.

Cis held many leadership roles throughout her life, including in her church, as a leader of the Eastern Star, on the Salvation Army Board, and in civic organizations. She was especially proud to serve the Town of Bluefield, VA, where she spent eighteen years on the Town Council. In February 1983, she became the first woman to serve as Mayor of Bluefield, VA, a position she held with dedication until July 1996. During her tenure, she worked closely with the town manager to bring important economic and community developments to the area. Among these were the arrival of Sam's Club and Walmart, improvements to infrastructure, the creation of Graham Recreational Park, the new town library, and the establishment of the town historical society. A hallmark of her leadership was her commitment to creating jobs and strengthening the town's economic vitality.

Cis was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Harry Francisco (Pat) and George Francisco (Bernice); her sister, Joy Buck (Dan); her husbands, Jack Richardson and Gordon Barrett; her son, Jack E. Richardson; her daughter-in-law, Candis Richardson; and her son-in-law, John Beckman.

She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Beckman of Signal Mountain, TN; her grandchildren, Jack E. Richardson, Jr. of Virginia Beach, VA, Melanie Dixon (Dave) of Key West, FL, and Jacque Griffith (Seth) of Signal Mountain, TN; four great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, who were deeply cherished by their "Aunt Cis."

Cis was a member of Signal Crest United Methodist Church in Signal Mountain, TN, and for many years was a faithful member and choir member of Virginia Avenue United Methodist Church in Bluefield, VA.

A private family graveside service will be held Friday, September 19, at 11 a.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends beginning at 1 p.m., with a Celebration of Life Service to follow at 2 p.m. at Virginia Avenue United Methodist Church in Bluefield, VA.

In honor of her lifelong commitment to faith and service, memorial donations may be made to Virginia Avenue United Methodist Church, 1901 Virginia Avenue, Bluefield, VA 24605.