ROBERT N. FRANCIS

Robert N. Francis, 70, affectionately known as "Bob," departed this earthly life on Tuesday, March 12, 2019, at Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital.

Born on Sept. 12, 1948, in Alcolu, he was a son of the late Robert and Susan V. Nelson Francis. Robert received his education in the public schools of Clarendon County and later graduated from Baltimore City Public Schools. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving at the Naval Amphibious Base at Little Creek in Norfolk, Virginia. Robert's last duty assignment and major command was on the USS Shadwell, where he was employed as a Navy mechanic. After serving his tour of duty, he was honorably discharged in 1973. When he completed his military service, he pursued his lifelong career with PST Trucking Inc. as an OTR truck driver. He thoroughly enjoyed being on the open road.

In 1996, Robert met his fianc e and love of his life, Marlene Cochran, of Erie, Pennsylvania.

Robert leaves to cherish his memories: one son, Michael Williams of Rocky Mount, North Carolina; four brothers, John (Betty) Nelson of Alcolu, Curtis Francis of Gable, and Thomas and Norman Francis, both of Baltimore; three sisters, Dian (Kennie) Marshall of Baltimore, Darlene Francis of Washington, D.C., and Deborah Francis of Sumter; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

The family will receive relatives and friends at the home, 1345 Boise Lewis Road, Gable.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday at John Wesley Williams Sr. Memorial Chapel, Williams Funeral Home Inc., 821 N. Main St., Sumter, with the Rev. Melissa Harvin, pastor of Cypress Fork AME Church, Alcolu, officiating, eulogist.

The procession will leave at 1:20 p.m. from the home.

Services directed by the management and staff of Williams Funeral Home Inc., 821 N. Main St., Sumter. Online memorial messages may be sent to the family at williamsfuneralhome@sc.rr.com. Visit us on the web at www.WilliamsFuneralHomeInc.com