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BLOWING ROCK – Lokie Milton Francis was born April 21,1930 to Henry and Ilta Francis in Hertford County. On Tuesday, January 23, 2024, he went to be with Jesus.

Lokie worked for several years on the family farm in Mapleton. In 1952, he met and later married Betty Jean Cobb. They had 1 daughter. He worked many years in the HVAC/Plumbing business. Lokie was a lifelong member of Meherrin Baptist Church where he served in various roles to include Deacon, Sunday school teacher, RA leader, and maintenance committee member. Also dear to his heart was the prison ministry. The Gideons and Full Gospel Business Men International were also important to him. Lokie enjoyed sharing his Faith and telling others about Jesus. Lokie was quietly generous to many people. The annual Watermelon Festival brought joy to Lokie and Betty as they enjoyed decorating their motorcycle and riding in the parade. There were also many years of camping.

As his health declined, he moved to the Blue Ridge to be near his daughter, Pat and his son-in-law, Bill.

Lokie is predeceased by 4 siblings and wife of 68 years, Betty Jean.

He is survived by daughter Pat Thornton and her husband Bill from West Jefferson NC.

A celebration of life funeral service will be held on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at 2 p.m. at the Meherrin Baptist Church, Murfreesboro, NC, with Rev. John Porter officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Meherrin Baptist Church cemetery.

Pat wishes to thank the amazing staff at The Foley Center in Blowing Rock NC as well as Liberty Hospice for their excellent care and support.

Donations may be made to Meherrin Baptist Church, 519 Meherrin Lane, Murfreesboro, NC 27855 or St Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place • Memphis, TN 38105 or online by visiting tmcfunding.com, search fund, type- Lokie Francis.

Garrett-Sykes Memorial Chapel is handling the arrangements for the Francis family and online condolences can be directed to the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com.