Gretna……….William Edward Francis, Sr., age 90 of Gretna, died Monday, February 6, 2012 at his residence.
Born September 28, 1921 in Pittsylvania County, he was a son of the late, William Dan Francis and Lois Dawson Francis. He was predeceased by his wife, Onie Pierce Francis; a daughter, Rosa Prather; a son Donnie Francis; four brothers, Malcolm Francis, Albert Francis, Henry Francis, and Lawrence Francis; and four sisters, Mary Bowen, Thelma Edwards, Ruth Walker, and Eva LaForm. Mr. Francis was a member of Java Church of God of Prophecy, and was a farmer. He enjoyed working, fishing, and hunting.
He is survived by one son, W.E. "Sammy" Francis, Jr. of Gretna; one brother, Louis Francis of Laural Grove; one sister, Beulah Whitlow of South Boston; 8 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be conducted 2:00 P.M. Thursday, February 9, 2012 at Colbert-Moran Chapel by Rev. Edward Pope. Burial will follow in the Pierce Family Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 7 to 8:00 P.M. Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, and other times will be at his grandchild's house, Chris and Marcia Francis, 1795 South Main Street, Gretna.
Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, Gretna is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.colbertmoran.com.