Obituary of Lesley Ann Hailstone

Lesley Ann Hailstone passed peacefully, with family by her side, on December 20, 2024, at the age of 75. Lesley fought hard during  her battle with ovarian cancer over the last few years.  

Lesley was the devoted and loving wife to Stan Franjkovic of 55 years. She was the beloved mother of Sheila Franjkovic (Robert), Vanessa Bannon (nee Franjkovic) (Andy), and the late Michael Franjkovic. Lesley was the cherished Grandmother (Baka) to Sophia, Fiero, Emilio, Russell and Hugh. Lesley will be fondly remembered by Theresa Collins, and nieces and nephews, Sean, Becky, Patrick, Jessica, Megan and Sarah. 

She is survived by her mother Allanah Hailstone, brother Sean and sister Rosemary. Lesley was predeceased by her father Patrick, brother Michael and son Michael.

Lesley devoted her life as a registered nurse, starting as a labour and delivery nurse and then evolving to geriatric care. Her passion for people and her caring nature fostered many special friendships throughout her life.  An avid gardener and cook, known as the soup queen, Lesley loved her farm on Glasgow where she raised her family. In their retirement, Stan and Lesley were world travellers and would make seeing friends and family their top priority. She and Stan always had an open door with friends and family, hosting memorable gatherings and bringing people together. 

She also loved music - especially during her last few years where she struggled finding her words from her battle with dementia. Just days before she passed she was caught singing along to her favourite band, The Beatles. 

Lesley was passionate about sisterhood and spirituality. She wanted everyone to have space to be themselves. She could often be found adoring poetry, recognizable quotes and old books full of passages, scriptures and life’s lessons.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday January 11, 2025 from 12:00 to 3:00pm with a service at 1:00pm. Light food and refreshments to be served before and after the service. The Celebration of Life will be held at the Nairn Church at 26459 Bear Creek Rd, Nairn Ontario.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lesley’s memory to the Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital Foundation.

*A Livestream and Recording of the Service will be available for viewing on January 11, 2025 at 1:00pm on Lesley's Tribute Wall