William Francis

Mr. William Benjamin Francis, III, age 77, of St. Augustine, FL, died Monday, January 25, 2021, at Baptist South Hospital in Jacksonville, FL. A graveside memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 31, at 12 p.m., at Davisboro City Cemetery in Davisboro, Georgia, with Michael Gurley presiding.

Bill was a native of Davisboro, Georgia; a father to four girls; a grandfather to 10 grandchildren whom he adored; a brother; a Vietnam veteran; a great cook; an occasional philosopher; a storyteller; a master carpenter; and a motorcycle lover, which gave him the endearing title of “Motorcycle Granddaddy.” He was preceded in death by his parents, Harriet Francis and James Cordy Francis, Sr., as well as his brother, James Cordy Francis, Jr. and sister, Sally Francis Tanner.

Bill is survived by his significant other, Diane Potter; 4 daughters, Kim Francis Allgood (Michael) of St. Augustine, FL, Kerri Francis Gurley of Alpharetta, Lisa Amanda Williams (Michael) of Rhine, and Katie Francis Crum (Justin) of Newnan; 10 grandchildren, Ben Allgood, Bryce Allgood, Gavin Gurley, Ryland Gurley, London Gurley, Finn Gurley, Carlin Knowles, Joley Williams, Sarah Kate Williams, and Weston Crum; 2 sisters—Bett Lord (Lee) and Gerri Hudson (Buddy); and many nieces and nephews.

The family requests masks to be worn and social distancing to be observed for the service.

In addition to flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

May and Smith Funeral Directors is in charge of these arrangements. www.mayandsmithfuneraldirectors.com