Francis M. Small

FREEPORT – Francis M. Small passed away in the early morning hours of Jan. 16, 2026. Francis was born March 30,1943 at Mrs. Gilberts Hospital in Yarmouth, Maine.

He graduated from Greely Institute and went on to study carpentry and graduated from Southern Maine Vocational Technical Institute. Francis started his Fire Service career as a teenager in the Town of Cumberland as a volunteer fire fighter. He retired as a deputy chief.

Francis was a dedicated community volunteer. He was active and involved in many organizations. A Lifetime Member of the Cumberland Fire Department, The Brass Knobs, 4H Leader, Past President and Board Member of the Cumberland Farmers Club, Past President of the Maine Association of Agricultural Fairs, Cumberland County Fire Attack School, New England Association Fire Chiefs, Inc., The Masons, the 470 Railroad Club, and a lifelong Lionel Train Enthusiast.

As an avid gardener, his backyard was filled with vegetables, berries and a Maple sugar shack. His skills at canning and preserving his vegetables were masterful. Francis was employed for many years as a Master Carpenter with George B. Small Builders in Cumberland.

Francis and Jean enjoyed many years at their second home in Lake Wales, Fla. where they were able to entertain family and friends. He was also active on the Homeowners Association Board for The Saddlebag Lake Resort.

Francis was predeceased by his parents, Maurice W. and Marion F. Small, and his sister Lorraine I. Small.

Francis is survived by his wife of 62 years, Jean F. Small; his son David and wife Rhonda, daughter Linda Wells, daughter Janet Small; his brother George and Carolyn Small; granddaughter Chelsey Chambers and husband Patrick, granddaughter Leslie Irish and husband Kyle, granddaughter Ariana Small, grandson Matthew Wells, granddaughter Candace Wells; as well as many nieces and nephews; great grandchildren; and extended family, Bob Haskell, Charlie Wells.

The family invites you to a time of visitation on Friday Jan. 23, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Lindquist Funeral Home and Saturday Jan. 24 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. immediately followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. at Lindquist Funeral Home. The burial will take place in the spring.

You may offer your condolences or share your memories at http://www.lindquistfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers,

please donate to:

Cumberland Maine

Fire Association

366 Tuttle Rd.

Cumberland, ME 04021