The earthly life of Roger Francis, 80, of Laurelville, OH ended October 23, 2022 at Berger Hospital, Circleville.  His eternal life in heaven begins now.

A man of many talents and hobbies, Roger was a dedicated family and friend to many. He was born September 4, 1942, the son of the late Bartley and Marcella Francis.  Roger leaves behind his wife of nearly 40 years, Sharon Parks Francis; 3 children, Vicki (Eric) Wissler and Diana Francis, of Chillicothe, and Nathan (Carrie) Francis, Pickerington.  Roger adored his 5 grandchildren, Candace (Nathan) Cherrington, Kayla Francis, Payne (Gabriela), Pierce (Emily) and Sydney Wissler; and 2 great-grandchildren, Blayten Hartley and Charlotte Cherrington.  Roger’s only sibling Sharon (Jean) Justus died April 2022.

A 1960 graduate of Chillicothe High School, Roger was an award-winning newspaper carrier for the Chillicothe Gazette, a grocery bagger at Alber’s grocery store, and sales clerk at Herman’s shoe store.  He spent 36 years in the maintenance department of Chilpaco, served as a Springfield Township trustee, little league baseball coach, and Zane Trace bus driver.  He was an avid fisherman, camper, boat enthusiast, woodworker and builder/remodeler.

In accordance with Roger’s wishes, following cremation, a memorial service will be held 4:30 pm Thursday at Brookside Church, with his lifelong friend and spiritual mentor Jack Norman officiating.  Food and fellowship will follow.  Memorial contributions may be made to Brookside Church, 2215 Egypt Pike, Chillicothe, OH 45601.