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Henry Francis Obituary

Henry G. Francis

Memphis

Henry G. Francis, 91, who worked for two major Boston newspapers and the American Contract Bridge League (ACBL), died August 1 at home in Memphis, TN. The cause is unknown, but he had been suffering from Parkinson's disease.

Mr. Francis was born in Everett, MA to Henry and Cecilia Francis, and also lived in Nahant, MA before moving to Memphis in 1972. He wrote about college sports for the Boston Globe while a student at Boston College. He worked for the Boston Herald Traveler for 25 years, starting out in the sports department then moving to the news department, where he eventually rose to news editor. He was in the newsroom on November 23, 1963 at 1:30p.m., when bells started ringing in the wire room - the United Press wire had just two words: "KENNEDY SHOT."

Mr. Francis was involved with bridge while working for the newspaper, and after. He started out as a player, then was an ACBL tournament director. When he left the newspaper in 1972, he became the executive editor of the ACBL Bulletin for over 25 years. During that time, he also edited some editions of "The Official Encyclopedia of Bridge" and "The World Championship Book," and daily bulletins at North American Championships for several years. He co-authored "Bermuda Bowl: The All-Time Best Deals." He was inducted into the ACBL Hall of Fame in 2003.

Mr. Francis was married for over 25 years to Rose Gaudette of Malden, who preceded him in death, then for just over 40 years to Dorthy Nelson of Memphis, who survives him. He was pre-deceased by one son and a sister. He is survived by a brother, five children, five stepchildren, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation or charities.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 8 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. with the service to follow immediately at 2:30 p.m. All services will be held at Memorial Park.

Published by The Commercial Appeal on Aug. 6, 2017.
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Memories and Condolences
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I think of Henry often. Though our paths crossed mostly at bridge tournaments, his hard work--always with a smile--was an inspiration. I hope all his family is doing well and will join me in raising a virtual glass to a great gentleman.

Patricia L Magnus

Other

August 3, 2021

Hi Dorthy,
Brenda and I were saddened to hear of Henry's passing. It seems like just yesterday when you and Henry produced the Bermuda Regional bulletin, but I realize it must have been in the early 90's.
I was Howard Piltch's partner in those days, and Henry would frequently use hands from our events for the bulletins. It made me feel like a player several grades above my level. Just about a month ago, Henry sent me a note on Messenger, out of the blue. He must have noticed my e-mail address from somewhere. This was the first time I have heard from him, and haven't seen him in all those years, because we do not frequent the same games, etc.
I responded, although I have never used Messenger before or since, and told him I was all thumbs, and he may not receive the answer.
Anyway, Dorthy, we are thinking about you and hope you are doing OK. Henry was a remarkable person, and we enjoyed our annual trips to Bermuda when you and he were doing the bulletin.
With deepest sympathy,
Brenda Fortunate and Edward White

August 9, 2017

A mentor and friend for 50 years.
Henry will be missed by many friends.

Sharron Josey
Chester Nova scotia

Sharron Josey

August 6, 2017

I first met Henry in the 1970s. What a wonderful man he was: kind, gentle, and wise. You are missed.
Patty Magnus

Patricia Magnus

August 5, 2017

I know I speak on behalf of all of Henry's friends in the Bridge Press association when we extend our sympathy to Dorthy and thank him for a life well lived, and his enormous contributions to bridge as a journalist and as president of IBPA.

August 4, 2017

You leave great legacy, Henry. RIP.


Bill and Jane Eason

Jane Eason

August 3, 2017

I met Henry on the beach in las palmas in 1974. He will be missed by all who knew him. A very sad day.

Jo Morse

August 3, 2017

I worked with Henry for many years at ACBL. He became a friend and we talked about bowling a lot. We both had a love for the game. He will be missed.

Barbara Varner

August 3, 2017

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Memorial Events
for Henry Francis

Aug

8

Visitation

1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Memorial Park

TN

Aug

8

Service

2:30 p.m.

Memorial Park

TN

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