Fran is my buddy. I worked with Fran for 5 years and over the years we accumulated a dozen inside jokes. Fran was very helpful to me outside of work as well. One time I ask him if he could figure out what this sound was coming from the rear of my truck.  Fran said "let’s go for ride and figure it out". He was kind, smart, detail oriented and wrote eloquently.  I will miss him, and I learned a lot from him too.

Fran was such a special neighbor and friend, so kind,gentle and loves his family . Jill, his wife is also a precious friend and neighbor. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of grief. He will truly be missed.

Fran joined Faulkner Haynes in 2008 and quickly became an integral part of our company’s success. I remember telling him (half-jokingly) that his job was simple, all he had to do was make us look good.  He exceeded that request every day because that was just who he was.  Whether Fran was front and center with a customer or working behind the scenes he gave  Faulkner Haynes’ customers, vendors and employees the comfort of his unique expertise and professionalism .  

He had a great smile, a positive attitude, and a passion for his work. He was always ready to help. He was dependable, hard-working, and talented. He had a heart of gold. He had a warm personality and he cared deeply about doing a good job.  He was meticulous with his work. He often said, “I’m going to do it the way I would want it to be done”.  Which meant it was done professionally and above expectations…he made us look good. 

Many employees have come to me and shared that Fran was their mentor.  That he took time to help them progress their knowledge.  Fran was not only a great employee, but also a great friend to many of us. He was always there to offer support and made everyone feel welcome. He was loyal, honest, and extremely smart.  I could go on and on.

Fran will be dearly missed by all of us who had the privilege of knowing him and working with him. He made a lasting impression on our company, our customers, our vendors, and co-workers. He was a rare individual and there will never be another like him.

We extend our deepest condolences to Fran’s family and friends. We share your grief and sorrow. We hope you find comfort in the memories of Fran’s life and the friendship he gave to all of us.

One small way Faulkner Haynes will honor Fran’s legacy will be to dedicate our Raleigh training facility to his memory which will now be named the Fran McDowell Center for Leaning.

Chuck Faulkner

To Fran's family and close friends, I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Fran through work for a number of years, and I always enjoyed our interactions. He was friendly, patient and knowledgeable, and if he didn't know the answer (which was rare), he knew someone who would. Fran would always go the extra mile to help you out, and you could tell he really cared. He's no longer here with us, but his memory and the way he positively impacted so many people will live on. I know I will never forget him! Rest in peace, Fran.

So many memories I don’t even know where to begin. I met Fran in 2012 when I started working with him. He became a friend quickly and when I was down he just smiled and I was instantly comforted. We joked and laughed and he gave me so much knowledge that has gotten me where I am today. We encouraged each other and helped each other where we could. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten. He had a heart of gold that one one could touch. We shall always remember all the smiles, laughter and many other wonderful memories as he will live on through us all

Sincere condolences to Fran's family, friends, and co-workers and may God watch over Fran from here on! Rest in peace, Fran!

Jim Davidson and Team
Uptime Solutions
Dayton, Ohio



I only had the pleasure of working with Fran over the past 2 years, but I enjoyed  walking into the office together the many days that we arrived at the same time. He was such a nice man and was certainly our "go to guy" when someone needed an answer to a technical question. Our desks were close to each other and several times I overhead him respond to a frustrated customer by stating the facts in a non-threating, clam manner, in all cases leaving the customer feeling assured that our company was making every effort to help them. Fran was the epitome of leading by example. I will miss him.

We are so sorry that you are going through this unexpected loss.  We will always remember Fran’s infectious laugh/smile and the ability to connect with everyone.  Fran will always be remembered ( too big of a personality to forget) and we will cherish the memories we had together, and there are many good ones.  There is nothing worse than losing someone you love, but he will always be with us in our hearts.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.   Much love David and Kathleen Mount.

OBITUARY

Francis Keith McDowell

3 August, 1956 – 26 July, 2023

Mitchell Funeral Home at Raleigh Memorial Park

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