John Francis

John J. Francis VIRGINIA BEACH - Dr. John J. Francis, M.D., 91, passed away Jan. 16, 2011 at Lake Taylor Rehabilitation Hospital after an extended illness. John was born July 30, 1919 in Hackensack, N.J. After graduating from Hackensack High School he served in the armed services during World War II. After which he attended Howard University in Washington D.C. graduating with a B.S. degree in pharmaceuticals and a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. He attended La Universidad Autonoma de Mexico where he received his degree in medicine. He retired from the federal government where he served as Head of The Department of Occupational Therapy for the United States Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., in 1999. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Catherine Francis; brothers, Walter and Charles Francis; and sister, Edith Francis. John is survived by his sons, John Jr., and Arturo Francis; daughter, Catherine Gonzales and husband Carlos; grandchildren, Maya Francis, Carlos and Anthony Gonzales and many other relatives and friends. The family wishes to express sincere thanks to all for every act of kindness and word of comfort. May God bless each of you. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, Jan. 22, at 10 a.m. at Smith and Williams Funeral Home, 4889 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. There's a path that goes beyond our world where God will take our hand and set us free to live with Him in His eternal land. May it bring you comfort to know your loved one's there living in God's kingdom protected by his care. Services are under the care of Smith and Williams Funeral Home.