John M. Francis
DELTAVILLE—John Milton “Big Daddy” Francis, 85, formerly of Mechanicsville, died Oct. 24, 2009.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Raleigh Milton and Annie Spence Francis; brothers, Gilbert and James Francis; sisters, Bertha F. Johnson and Louisa F. Bryant.
Mr. Francis was co-owner with John Bragg of Bragg and Francis Tile and Marble Inc. He loved his craft, working more than 40 years. It can be found in buildings all across the state, and remains a part of his legacy.
He was raised in Southampton County.
He was a member of Zoar Baptist Church, the West Richmond Business Men’s Association, the Home Builders Association of Richmond and Woodmen of the World.
Survivors include his wife, Marian R. Francis; daughter, Brenda F. Bailey and husband Eugene; three grandchildren, Francis, Justin and Allison Bailey; six sisters, Ruth F. Carter of Franklin, Irma Heath and Marie Fowler and husband Elmo of Courtland, Rosa Lee Grant of Carrsville, Jeannette Carlin of Virginia Beach and Bessie Best and husband Clayton Louis of Suffolk; one brother, Robert “Bobby” and wife Phyllis of Emporia; brother-in-law, Garland Bryant of Courtland; sisters-in-law, Louise Bryant and husband Lewis of Courtland and Frances B. Francis of Hampton; and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service was held Oct. 27 at Zoar Baptist Church, Deltaville.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Middlesex County Volunteer Rescue Squad, Lower Middlesex Fire Department or Zoar Baptist Church, P.O. Box 1010, Deltaville, VA 23403.