Timothy Franklin Francis

Timothy Franklin Francis, 70, of Williamston, NC passed away December 29, 2025 on his houseboat in New Bern, NC surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 28,1955 in Auburn, NY. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who will forever be missed. Tim will be remembered for his devotion to his family and friends, his love, strength, hard work and his determination to succeed.

He proudly served his country honorably in the United States Navy from 1970 to 1973 as a Boatswain's Mate Seaman. He completed his training at Naval Training Center Great Lakes and served in Hawaii aboard the USS Knox.

Tim is preceded in death by his wife and soulmate Joanne Francis, his mother Patricia Wiggins and stepfather Timothy Wiggins, father Franklin Francis and stepmother Elaine Francis, sister Mary Costanzo, brother in-law Jim Salva, and grandparents Kathleen and Paul Hesse.

He is survived by his children Nicholas Francis, Colleen Matson and her husband Erik, Lisa Jones and significant other Alex Cox. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Jason Spruill, Selena Jones and Kash Cox. He is also survived by his sisters Linda Williams, Pamela Powers, Kim Mayorga, and Gayle Rizzo (Carl Rizzo) and sister in-law Julie DiFederico. His Uncle Paul Thomas Hesse, whom he shared a very close bond with. As well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In 1992, Tim and Joanne founded their family business, Lasca’s Italian Restaurant, in Windsor, NC and worked side by side to build it into a well-known and successful establishment in the community. Tim thoroughly enjoyed traveling with his family and friends to many places, New Orleans, Baltimore, Universal Studios and his home away from home, Key West. He loved to fish and enjoyed a good game of pool with his very close friends. Tim and Joanne enjoyed spending their weekends in New Bern, on their houseboat, where they enjoyed boating life, dining out and heading down to BTM for a Miller Lite and Campari and soda for his girl.

Tim and Joanne were inseparable in life, and whatever life threw at them, they did it together side by side. Tim was fierce, but had a heart that just kept giving. If someone was in need and he could help, he gave. He loved like no other and will truly be missed.

Tim gained his wings, reuniting with his beloved wife Joanne, both of them leaving behind broken hearts filled with cherished love and memories.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The family will receive visitors from 2:00-3:00 pm on Sunday, January 4, 2025, at Cotten Funeral Home and will be officiated by Rev. Claude Foy III. A memorial service will begin at 3:00 pm. A small gathering will take place following the service at The BTM downtown New Bern.

Services in Auburn, NY will be held at a later date.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Timothy Franklin Francis.