Francis was born in New Orleans, Louisiana; attended Holy Trinity Catholic School and Warren Easton High School, a graduate of 1954. Francis was a devout Catholic and was a fan of the NFL and NBA, having been an original season ticketholder of the New Orleans Jazz since its founding. He also enjoyed betting the horses both on and off track, along with the occasional hand of Black-Jack. He was a voracious reader.

Francis was a self-made success, as a pioneer in the medical and industrial equipment sales industry; after a stint in the US Navy as a flight controller stationed in Naples, Italy, he started in an entry position as a truck driver for National Cylinder Gas in uptown New Orleans, and quickly worked his way up to salesman. From there he became a national salesman, and eventually the southern regional sales manager of Monaghan Medical Corporation, a global leader in the respiratory care industry. It was in 1975 when along with a co-investor he decided to branch out and become self-employed, starting AC Medical Supply in Elmwood Industrial Park. From there he founded Medical and Industrial Equipment Services (MIE Servies), servicing a five-state area in the Gulf South. He was a tremendous provider for his family and employees. He was very quick witted, with a fantastic sense of humor. He will be missed by all who had the privilege to have met and known him.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation at Greenwood Funeral Home, 5200 Canal Blvd, New Orleans, on Friday, August 23, 2024, at 11:00 AM, followed by a prayer service and a catered reception in The Boulevard Room at Greenwood Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in memory of Francis be made to your favorite charitable organization. The Family invites you to share your thoughts, fond memories, and condolences online, at www.greenwoodfh.com .