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FUNERAL HOME
220 North Main Street
East Longmeadow, Massachusetts
Francine Belden Obituary
1948 - 2025
SPRINGFIELD
Francine Ann Belden, 76, beloved mother, sister, aunt and friend. She was a lifelong resident of Springfield, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, candor, and quiet strength.
Born to the late Theodore Belden and Dorothy (Aussant) Belden, she was a graduate of the High School of Commerce and Holyoke Community College. Francine built a life grounded in family, community, and hard work. She was the devoted mother of Jeffrey Ruhland and cherished sister of Cindy Ferris and her husband James. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, and former daughter-in-law, Krissy. Besides her parents, Francine was predeceased by her brothers, Roy Belden and Richard Belden, Jr.
Francine spent over 29 years managing Wyatt Oil, now known as Noonan Energy, where her dedication and leadership earned deep respect from colleagues and customers alike. She later worked in the Human Resources Department at Hasbro, where she was known for her helpful nature, sharp mind, and unwavering work ethic.
Outside of work, Francine embraced life with curiosity and joy. She enjoyed golfing, a passionate flower gardener, and an enthusiastic traveler - especially when a road trip involved discovering new wineries, dinners and cherished weekends with friends at Lake George. A gifted jam maker and lifelong reader, she especially loved a good murder mystery and proudly owned the entire Nancy Drew collection.
Francine will be remembered for her thoughtful heart, her helpful spirit, and her honest opinions - always shared with love and conviction. She touched many lives with her generosity, humor, and strong sense of self. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
To honor Francine, friends and family are invited for visiting hours on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, from 4:00-7:00pm at Forastiere Smith Funeral & Cremation, 220 N. Main St, East Longmeadow. Francine will be buried with her parents in Hillcrest Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Francine's memory to Thomas J. O'Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center, 627 Cottage St, Springfield MA 01104. For more information or to leave a message with the family, please visit www.forastiere.com.
Memories and Condolences
for Francine Belden
Sponsored by The Family.
9 Entries
Henry C
July 30, 2025
Jeff
Very sorry for the loss of your Mom.
Chris Devine
July 28, 2025
Jeff,
Thoughts and prayers being sent your way. We were blessed with your Mom being our Backyard neighbor for 36 years. A better lady couldn't be found. We will miss her as she ,tended to her flower gardens while we talked. She will truly be missed.
Frank & Chris Devine
Kris
July 28, 2025
Jeff, I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom couldn´t have been prouder or loved anyone more than you. The world will be dimmer without the one and only, FAB.
Linda
July 27, 2025
My friend of 60 years. I will miss you dearly. RIP I love you
Linda class of 66
Nick Creanza
July 27, 2025
Dear family,
I was saddened to read of Francine's passing. We met in 7th grade at Van Sickle Jr. High School and graduated in the Class of 1966 at the High School of Commerce. We continued to enjoy seeing each other at the Country Club of Wilbraham.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Please accept my sincere sympathy.
Kris
July 27, 2025
The world will be a little dimmer without Francine in it. So very sorry for your loss, Jeff. There was no one your mom was prouder of or loved more.
It was an honor to know you, Francine. Rest in peace, the one and only FAB.
Janet Marano
July 27, 2025
Jeff so very sorry for your loss, prayers to you and to Francine for her final journey.. may she rest in peace
Louise M Whiting
July 26, 2025
Prayers being said for Francine & her family. May she RIP
Judi Sullivan
July 26, 2025
Jeff and Cindy, as you know, I met Francine while we both were working at Hasbro. A great friendship formed and we spent our time attending concerts, museums, vineyards and fine dining which leaves me with wonderful memories. Our annual girl´s weekends at Cindy´s summer home at Lake George, along with her other nine long-time close girlfriends, was filled with laughter, art projects and ending with a wine bottle sculpture (and the neighbors complaining we were loud). What laughs we had. I will missed our telephone conversations where you would guess how long we talked...45 minutes or more. There will always be a reminder of you so you won´t be forgotten. Love, Judi
Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results
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Memorial Events
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Jul
30
Visitation
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Forastiere Smith Funeral & Cremation
220 North Main St., East Longmeadow, MA 01028
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Forastiere Smith Funeral Home & Cremation - East Longmeadow220 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, MA 01028
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