Ray W. Francis

Ray Francis, 81 years old, of Pilot Mountain passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, September 2, 2022.  He was a wonderful loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend to so many.  Ray was a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and taught Sunday school and devoted his time to its ministry by supporting the Surry Baptist Men’s Association in building handicap ramps and splitting wood for many needy families.  After he retired from RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company, working 33 years, his main joy in life was helping his sons with their businesses and supporting his family in every way imaginable.  He taught his family what Christian love and charity are all about and we will continue his legacy. 

Ray was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Sandra Francis, father, John Herbert Francis, mother, Doris Joyce Francis, 2 brothers, Wade and Lloyd Francis, 3 sisters, Ruby Smith, Barbara Simmons, Ann Everhart.  He is survived by his daughter, Sharon Francis of Pilot Mountain, son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Renee Francis of Mount Airy, son and daughter-in-law, Tommy and Rita Francis of Pilot Mountain, 4 grandchildren, Lauren, Jordan, Benjamin, John Francis, sister, Lena Gordon, brother-in-law, Ronda Smith, sister-in-law, Norma Francis, and a special friend, Glenda Stanley, who was so loving and supportive in his health crisis.  We are eternally grateful for her support. 

A memorial service will be held at Moody Funeral Home Chapel Sunday, September 4, 2022, 2:00pm, followed by a brief graveside service at Skyline Memorial Gardens at 3:00pm.  The service will be officiated by Rev. Ken Clark and Rev. Roland McCraw.  The family will receive friends from 12:30pm – 2:00pm prior to service.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Surry Baptist Association (memo – Handyman Ministry).