Obituary of Joseph W. Francis

"A life well lived is a precious gift, of hope and strength and grace, from someone who has made our world a brighter, better place. It's filled with moments, sweet and sad with smiles and sometimes tears, with friendships formed and good times shared and laughter through the years. A life well lived is a legacy, of joy and pride and pleasure, a living, lasting memory our grateful heart's will treasure." Joseph “Joe” W. Francis, Jr., 73, died peacefully Sunday, December 29, 2019 at his home in Herndon, VA with his trust-worthy dog Haze laying by his side. He was a lifelong resident of the Washington D.C. area having been born on September 26, 1946. He is survived by his wife Lana; daughter Alexandra (Brandon) Evans; sons Jonathan and Michael; and granddaughters Elise and Lydia; his brother Dr. John (Cynthia) Francis, sisters Dr. Veronica Bryant and Dr. Stephanie (Dr. Laron) Locke; and a host of relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph W. Francis, Sr., in 1991, and Goldie Francis, in 2007. He was a 1964 graduate of Gonzaga College High School. He subsequently attended Villanova University. He served in the U.S. Army – being honorably discharged in October 1969. After his military obligation he joined the Federal Government. His job enabled travels to Central America, Europe, Northern Africa, and the former Soviet bloc. In 1977, Joe met his bride-to-be in Greece. Joe and Lana married on January 31, 1981 and from that union came three children: Alexandra, Jonathan, and Michael. Thereafter, two granddaughters. Joe loved his granddaughters and encouraged them in their development. During his career he earned his master’s degree at the Naval War College in Rhode Island. Prior to his retirement from the Federal Government, he was promoted to Senior Intelligence Service (SIS). Following departure from the Federal Service he provided consultation services to General Dynamics Corporation. A lifelong learner, Joe was a member of MENSA and attended college classes until the day of his passing. A true bibliophile, he surpassed his childhood goal of reading 10,000 books and was a member of Friends of Reston Regional Library. Joe was heavily involved in his local community and helped to save the lives of many men. He was an avid Jeopardy participant, having calls with his brother daily to discuss Final Jeopardy. Their daily banter was amusing to their close family. He was a sports fan and supported his local teams - both Redskins and Georgetown Hoyas. During his final years Joe's constant companion and loyal friend was his dog, Haze. Their daily walks aided in his recovery from a hip replacement and cardiac ailments. Joe was a strong and silent man – always available to provide a listening ear to his family and friends. He is truly loved and will be dearly missed.