When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. He will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. He was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with him throughout his life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Gerard (Gerald) was an individual who clearly communicated to those around him just who he was and what he was all about. Everyone acquainted with Gerard knew him as a well-respected man who was a stable force in his community.
His parents were Wilbur Mack and Loretta Mae Francis. Gerard was raised in Houston, Texas. Even as a youngster, Gerard learned to be objective and decisive. His faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that he carried with him throughout his life.
As a young boy, Gerard was able to put his natural abilities to work. He was a bit like the sergeant of the family, helping to make sure that the others did what they should do and that they avoided those things they weren’t supposed to. In other words, he liked to organize and direct. Gerard was raised with three. He had two brothers, James and Ronald, one sister, Vanessa. Gerard had an appreciation for the order in the family, allowing for the oldest members to be the most respected and to take on the most responsibility. For Gerard, this was a natural order of life, one he gladly embraced.
In school, Gerard was as close to being a model student as one could possibly imagine. He sought to achieve perfect attendance in all of his classes. A logical and focused thinker, Gerard was always good at following directions and meeting his schedules, whether they were set by his teachers or were self-imposed. Gerard’s personal motto could well have been, “Do it right the first time".
Gerard’s practical work ethic carried over into his college years. His logical mind permitted him to work hard without succumbing to the usual distractions of college life. He would tackle an assignment and work through it before moving onto the next project. Gerard’s orderly nature gave way to establishing personal study habits and procedures that not only helped him stay on track but often put him ahead of schedule. When Gerard saw the need or benefit, he would willingly take on the extra assignment or even attend extra classes in order to learn more and become a better student. He attended Wiley College in Marshall, Texas.
Gerard was sociable and approachable. Because he was always so straightforward in how he approached relationships, friends and family knew that what they saw was always what they got. He enjoyed the camaraderie of being with a group of friends. When Gerard was a member of a group, his interaction worked to keep the others grounded. He wasn’t afraid to confront his friends and, when necessary, he challenged them to stick to the task at hand. Those close to Gerard came to expect his high standards of performance. Later in life, he became friends with Remy Crump (Best Friend) and a host of others!
An objective and conscientious individual, Gerard reveled in the security of his family. One of Gerard’s most endearing qualities was his uncanny ability to remember important dates and anniversaries, and his unending enthusiasm for organizing a celebration for his family and friends.
Gerard was ever watchful of his children. He worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up. He maintained a firm hand in their upbringing. Gerard would give his stamp of approval to their requests, as long as he could see how they might benefit. He also had the ability to enforce the rules as needed to ensure that his children were properly raised. Gerard was blessed with four children: Two sons, Girard Francis and Dion Bateman, and twin daughters, Ashley Francis and Ashstin Proctor (Ronald).He was also blessed with four grandchildren, Jaeven, Madison, Ma'Laya, and Jace.
Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Gerard was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. He was able to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track. An excellent project supervisor, Gerard was a person who could quickly make decisions based on the information available. He worked cooperatively and expected the same from his colleagues. In both his personal and professional environments, Gerard upheld his standards. His primary occupation was a Tool Room Attendant. He was employed for at METRO Transit Authority for 32 years. Gerard was a team player who certainly lived out the motto of “give me a job, and I will get it done.”
Gerard approached his leisure time in the same manner that he approached his life. A person who enjoyed being neat and orderly and one who understood the nature of things, he appreciated the hours he was able to devote to his various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were Singing and Performing R&B. Gerard was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.
All who knew him would agree that Gerard was a pillar of the community. He lived his life with his feet firmly on the ground. He had a strong work ethic, was pragmatic in his thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives.
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