of Benton, AR

December 12, 1941 - December 15, 2023

Gerald Thomas Francis, 82, passed away December 15, 2023 in Benton. He was born December 12, 1941 in his family home at Alpine, Arkansas to the late George Dewey Francis and Mirtie Craig Francis.

Francis completed elementary school in Alpine and the remainder of his pre-college education in Amity. He then attended Henderson State Teacher's College (now known as Henderson State University), where he earned a BSE in art education.

Gerald met his future wife, Tommye Graham, at Henderson and they were married for 61 years. Gerald was a Christian and served the Lord for many years at Highland Heights Baptist Church, where he was a Deacon. In his later years, he was a member of First Baptist Church in Benton.

Gerald was always interested in automobiles and had an entrepreneurial spirit. After settling in Benton, he opened his first business, Gerald Francis Motors, a used-auto business. He later owned and operated Arkansas Marine (early 1970s), but soon realized he wanted to focus on his true passion- cars.

Eventually, Gerald retired from his original business, but after only a few years he opened Gerald Francis Auto Exchange, just off the I-30 frontage road. He also had a strong interest in the RV business and opened Francis RV next to Francis Auto Exchange. After a few years, he retired again (for good).

Gerald loved golf, fishing and had a special love for dirt drag-racing. At one time, he coached Little League Baseball and Boys and Girls Club Basketball. His greatest pleasures were his children and grandchildren. His favorite name was ''Poppy''

Gerald is preceded in death by his parents; infant daughter, Laura Suzanne Francis; brother, Rolan Francis and sisters, Margie Keys and Clara Stover.

Survivors include his wife, Tommye; daughter, Jennifer (Hari) Sharma of Northern Colorado; son, Josh (Jennifer) Francis; grandson, Brody Francis; granddaughter, Jillian Francis all of Springdale, Arkansas and many other family members and friends.

Gerald's funeral service is to be Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 2:00 P.M. at Selph Hall, Benton, Arkansas. Visitation will be from 12:30 until time for service.

In honor of Gerald's memory, memorials may be given to a charity of the donor's choice.

Sign Guestbook

4 Condolence(s)