John Francis

FRANCIS, JOHN L. John L. Francis, age 84, retired United Methodist pastor and denominational executive, passed away February 20, 2012. He served as pastor of congregations in White Cloud, Sanford, Ithaca, Battle Creek, Eaton Rapids, Hillsdale and Holland. He was a United Methodist District Superintendent from 1970-1977 and West Michigan Conference Director from 1987 to 1989. A former trustee of Albion College, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree in 1971 by the college. He is preceded in death by his two sisters B. Faith Francis and Gloria O'Meara. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Donna; sons Paul (Jennifer) Francis of Portland, Oregon, and Dean (Nora) Francis of Evanston, Illinois; and two grandsons, Tyler (Melissa) and Zachary (Allison). A memorial service will be Wednesday February 29 at 11:00 am at First United Methodist Church, 227 Fulton St. SE. Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to First United Methodist Church, 227 Fulton St. SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503; Clark Retirement Community, 1551 Franklin SE, Grand Rapids, MI. 49506 or Faith Hospice - Trillium Woods, 2100 Raybrook S.E., Ste. 300, Grand Rapids, MI 49546-5783.