Oscar L. Francis

Oscar Lee Francis Sr. of Rockford, Illinois, departed this earthly life on September 15, 2021. He was born in Ratio, Arkansas on December 20, 1941 to Omer and Marie Francis. On October 28, 1962, Oscar married Willie Mae Beasley and they moved to Rockford from Vance, Mississippi in 1966. Upon coming to Rockford, Oscar was employed for many years at Greenlee and later obtained employment at Reed-Chatwood where he worked until his retirement. In his spare time, Oscar enjoyed working on cars, tending to his garden, and cooking sweet potatoes pies.

Oscar was a faithful member in church spending many years serving as a Deacon, Teacher, and an Usher. He also enjoyed singing in the Male Chorus as well as spending countless hours doing building maintenance. Oscar was formerly a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, United Faith Baptist Church, and was a member of Spirit of Truth Church until his passing. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge #17 for 55 years.

Oscar Francis, Sr. leaves to cherish in his memory, his wife, Willie Mae Francis; five sons, Tommy (Barbara) of Rockford, IL, Jimmy (Louisa) of Lewisville, TX, Oscar Jr. of Dallas, TX, Omer (Ursula) of Roscoe, IL, and Christopher Francis of Douglasville, GA; two daughters, Debra Francis of University City, MO and Mary Francis-Agnew of Douglasville, GA; 18 Grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; one brother, Omer Francis III of Rockford, IL; four sisters, Lucille Harris, Emma Hardy, Marie Hardy and Patricia (Dewey) Sharp all of Rockford, IL; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, including close friend Dee Willie Clark.

He was predeceased by his parents, Omer and Marie; grandson, Eugene Francis; two sisters, Lillion Ross and Alma Beasley; and family friend whom he loved as his son, Reggie Stewart.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 24, 2021 at Providence Baptist Church 2209 Clifton Ave. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Masks will be required.