The Record Newspapers - Hometown News For Orange County, Texas

Joe D. Francis, 77, better known in The Golden Triangle area as "Jamaica Joe", passed away at his residence on Friday, Feb. 6, surrounded by his adoring family and friends.

Joe was born on July 13, 1937 in Natchitoches La., to Nathan and Ela (Jones) Francis.

He was a prominent businessman as the owner and operator of Bargain Carpet Warehouse for over 25 years, a real estate investor with a knack for finding a good deal, as well as many other ventures and adventures to keep himself busy in retirement.

He was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Orange.

Joe got the most joy from leaving love notes around the house for his wife, spoiling his children, bragging about his grandchildren and great grandchildren, traveling the world with his closest friends and above all else, making memories with his family.

He awoke every morning with a smile on his face with the intent of spreading joy and laughter to everyone he met.

His biggest goal in life was to inspire positivity in others and to encourage people to see the best in themselves and to appreciate the joys of life.

He touched countless people with his daily good deeds and generous, loving nature.

Everyone that met Joe will remember him as a friendly jokester and devoted and sincere father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, CB Francis and most recently his eternal companion, Vallie Sue (Whitman) Francis.

Joe is survived by his brother Gary Francis of Ocala, Fl; his beloved children, Lem Francis, wife Christi and family of Fannett, Missy Aucoin, husband Gregory and family of Lake Charles, Scott Francis, wife Beverly and family of Orange and Fara Francis of Denton.

A visitation will be held Sunday, Feb. 8, from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm at Dorman Funeral Home.

A funeral service will be held Monday, Feb. 9, at 11:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, in Orange. Burial will follow at Autumn Oaks Memorial Park in Orange.

Honoring Joe as pallbearers are Chris Francis, Evan Aucoin, Ty Lewis, Dwight Lewis, Cazzy Francis, Dwight Whitman, David Bloxom, David Whitman and Kalvin Francis. Honorary pallbearers are Tige Egan, Eddie Egan, Jeremy Keller, Timani Tonga Jr., Rory Williamson, Roger Dale Brodnax and Michael McMillen.