Francis of As·si·si 
(ə-sēzē, -sē, ə-sĭsē), Saint 1182?-1226.
(ə-sēzē, -sē, ə-sĭsē), Saint 1182?-1226. Italian Roman Catholic friar who founded the Franciscan order (1209) and inspired followers with his devotion, simple living, and love of nature. He was canonized in 1228.