Kristi Lynn France

Kristi Lynn McCue France, 71, of Hartford, South Dakota, passed away peacefully surrounded by love at Ava’s Hospice House on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

Born on April 25, 1955, in Hawarden, South Dakota, Kristi was the cherished daughter of Lawrence and Patricia (Jevons) McCue. She grew up in Northern California alongside her older sister, Cindy, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond and a lifetime of beautiful memories. After graduating from Carondelet Catholic High School, life led her to the love of her life, David France in 1975.

On June 2, 1979, Kristi and David were united in marriage. Over their 50 years together - including 47 wonderful years of marriage - they built a beautiful life rooted in family, laughter, and unconditional love. Together, they were blessed with three children: Hayden, David, and Angela. In 1993, their family grew when David’s daughter, Kimberlie, joined the household. Kristi welcomed Kim with open arms and a mother’s heart, instantly embracing her as one of her own.

A dedicated and hard worker, Kristi met several friends and touched many lives through her career. She spent over a decade at Phoenix Crystals (1991–2002), followed by several years at Qwest Communications. Lastly, she was a transportation coordinator at Sanford Health Plan where she celebrated her well-earned retirement on her 70th birthday in 2025.

Travel was one of Kristi and David’s greatest shared joys later in life. From coast to coast, they explored the country together - making special memories on trips to California, Pennsylvania, and New York. They deeply cherished these adventures and the quiet days they spent in each other's company.

Kristi took immense pride in hosting family traditions, from lively Fourth of July parties to warm Thanksgiving dinners. Kristi’s absolute favorite place was surrounded by her kids and grandkids. She had a true passion for keeping the family connected, never missing a chance to host or attend a celebration. Whether gathering for holidays, birthdays, 49ers game days, or casual get-togethers, the time spent together was what she cherished most.

Kristi especially looked forward to her grandchildren's activities. She was a constant, supportive presence in their lives and could always be found on the sidelines or in the audience at their football games, dance recitals, softball games, and basketball games. Her grandkids could truly do no wrong in her eyes. Kristi was profoundly proud of each of them, and it was impossible for her to ever be disappointed in them or the choices they made. Her love for them was entirely unconditional, serving as their biggest cheerleader in everything they pursued.

Kristi was a woman of unimaginable strength. She bravely fought and beat cancer in 2018 and faced the disease with that same fierce grace when it returned in 2025. After enduring both this grueling health battle and the sudden, profound heartbreak of losing her husband on July 20 and her son on September 1, her earthly struggle ended peacefully on October 14. She went home to be joyfully reunited with them.

Kristi’s legacy of love lives on through her children, Kimberlie (Dale) Lofano of Sioux Falls, David (Sheila) France of Sioux Falls, and Angela (Ryan) Munson of Baltic; and her adored grandchildren, Landen France, Naomie Lofano, Madison France, and James Munson. She will also be deeply missed by her nieces, Summer and Karly (both of California), and special cousins Pam and Theresa (both of Kansas); close friend, Judy; as well as a wide circle of extended family and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David; son, Hayden; her parents, Larry and Pat McCue; and her sister, Cynthia Garigliano.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, October 25 from 1-4 at the American Legion, 1700 W Russell St. Sioux Falls, SD. The family invites you to wear green, Kristi’s favorite color.