Jacequeline Lee France

Jacequeline Lee (Short) France, age 83 of Gaylord, Michigan passed away peacefully on May 8,2026, at the Hospice House in Traverse City, Michigan. She was born on September 30, 1943, to Kenneth and Betty (Pung) Short in Lansing, Michigan. 

On May 7, 1966, she married William Russell France III her first love. During William's service with the Michigan State Police, the couple lived in New Buffalo, Michigan where they welcomed their first daughter, Deborah Marie. The family later moved to Cadillac, where their second daughter, Christine Denise, was born. Jackie will be remembered most for the deep love she had for her family, especially her cherished grandchildren, who brought her endless joy.

Some of her happiest moments were spent with family and friends at her riverside property in Cheboygan, where she enjoyed bringing her motor home, camping, sharing campfires, and cooking and grilling for the whole family. Those times together created countless memories filled with laughter, love, and togetherness, plus more food than we could ever eat. In retirement she faithfully served as a dean at her local Presbyterian Church and dedicated many years volunteering to the Caring Closet in Gaylord. She also quietly gave her time by driving the elderly to appointments when they had no one else to help them - a reflection of her generous and compassionate heart. Family and friends were the center of her world. She especially loved Christmas and took great joy in making the holidays magical for everyone around her, always ensuring there were plenty of gifts to open and memories to make together. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, faith, and unconditional love that will continue to live on through all who were lucky enough to know her.

She is survived by her daughters, Deborah (France) Keefe and Christine (France) Siwecki; grandchildren Kaytelin Keefe, Hunter Siwecki and Tanner Siwecki; great-grandchildren River Garneau, Pearl Garneau, and Kashton Siwecki, as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her dear husband William, her parents, her brother Kenneth Short, and her son-in-law John Keefe. 

The family will remember her privately. Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on her guestbook below.