Charles E. Francis
Charles E. “Chuck” Francis, 76, of Claysville, died on Tuesday, July 25, 2023.
He was born on June 25, 1947, in Washington, a son of the late Kenneth Hildreth “Bunny” Francis and Ethel Danley Francis.
A 1966 graduate of McGuffey High School, he was a member of Claysville Methodist Church.
Mr. Francis was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, having served from October 27, 1966, until his honorable discharge, with the rank of Sergeant, on October 26, 1970. Chuck had been stationed at Vandenberg Air Force Base, and he loved telling stories about how much he enjoyed his time there and the antics of a small-town boy in California.
Mr. Francis worked as a foreman for West Penn Wire, from 1972 until his retirement in 2003.
He was a member of the Claysville American Legion and the Pennsylvania State Game Commission.
Chuck had a passion for cars, was a Mustang enthusiast, and enjoyed car cruising, car shows and car collecting. He was an avid “do it yourselfer.” A big sports fan, he enjoyed the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins, golfing, watching NASCAR and had played basketball in high school. Chuck and Bobby Redlinger coached the West Penn Wire girls softball team.
He enjoyed working at home, especially mowing, and watching all the hummingbirds.
Born and raised in Claysville, he loved the small-town life.
Mr. Francis was a proud patriot with a deep love of his country.
He adored his dogs, Elvis and Pepper, who will miss him. Chuck is with his dog, A.J. now.
On December 7, 1973, he married the love of his life, Barbara Horrell, who survives.
Also surviving are two daughters, Rachelle (Matthew W.) Hudak, of Cecil Township, and Christi (Eric) Jefferys, of Washington; a brother, George (Gaye) Francis, of Washington; two sisters, Mary Lou Galentine, of Washington, and LeeAnn Sorice, of Washington; a granddaughter, Dakota (Dustin) Klaus; three great-grandchildren, Lydia, Lily and Arabella; as well as several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are four siblings: Peggy Bakaitis, Mona Morris, Charles “Buddy” Francis and John Francis; and his beloved dog, A.J.
Friends and family are welcome from 3 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 30, 2023, and from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, July 31, 2023, in William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, where a service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 1, 2023.
Burial will follow in National Cemetery of the Alleghenies. Full military honors will be accorded at the cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name, to the Claysville Volunteer Fire Department, 154 Main Street, Claysville, PA 15323.
An online guest book is available at NealFuneralHome.com.