Francis Marion Miller (née Ricciuto)
Surrounded by the people she loved most, Francis Marion Miller (née Ricciuto) passed away peacefully on October 5, 2026, at the North Bay Regional Health Centre.
Born on December 15, 1955, in North Bay, Ontario, to Ernest and Faith Ricciuto (nee MacLean), Fran was one of those people who was not easily forgotten—and not easily told what to do. Strong-willed, quick-witted, and never one to keep an opinion to herself.
Fran attended St. Joseph’s College until Grade 11 before transferring to Chippewa Secondary School. It was there that she met the love of her life, Richard “Rick” Miller. The two would go on to build a life, a family, and many wonderful memories together.
In her younger years, Fran worked alongside her father at the General Repair and Key Shop. She loved telling stories about those days, particularly the part where she learned how to pick locks. Not exactly the skill most parents put on their daughter’s résumé, but then again, Fran was never exactly like most people.
Fran and Rick were married on August 26, 1978. Throughout the 1980s, their family grew with the arrival of their sons, Scott (Andrea) and Jeffrey (Kayla), followed by their daughter, Jill (Mike). Her family was her greatest source of pride and joy, although she may have occasionally reminded them just how much work they had been.
And then came the grandchildren—Gavin, Travis, Beckett, Kiera, and Melody (Landry)—and Fran found a whole new reason to spoil people.
Some of Fran’s favourite times were spent with her grandchildren. She loved taking them shopping, treating them to lunch, and, of course, ending their outings with the most important part of any successful date: ice cream. There was always time for ice cream. It was, after all, a very important family tradition.
Talon Lake held a particularly special place in Fran’s heart. Summers there with her young children became some of her fondest memories, and she loved seeing those same traditions continue as her grandchildren made their own summer memories at the lake with extended family.
Fran had a big personality and an even bigger heart. She was fiercely loyal, loved her family deeply, and had a gift for telling a story in a way that made sure you remembered it. She could make you laugh, make you shake your head, and, occasionally, make you wonder whether arguing with her was really worth it.
For those who knew and loved her, Fran was simply Fran—unapologetically herself, full of stories, opinions, laughter, and love.
She leaves behind a family who will miss her dearly.
Rick and the family would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Graham, for all the love and care you provided, it was above and beyond. Also, we would like to personally thank, Dr. Wallace, Dr. Leckie and the nurses on A3 that provided great care with a side of humor.
Celebrations of life to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The North Bay Regional Hospital Foundation. Arrangements entrusted to Martyn Funeral Home.
