Simon B.R. Francis was born October 4, 1939 in Commonwealth of Dominica, to
the late Gertrude and Joseph Donzil Francis. He was the eldest of eight children.
He attended Cockrane Government School. Before leaving the Island, he pursued
his dream of becoming an officer of the law. January 15, 1970 he was baptized at
St. Alphonsus Church in Goodwill, Dominic. About 5 years later Shagaramus (a
nickname he held back home) decided to come to the United States.
In July of 1975 he became a naturalized citizen of the United States of America.
During this time he held numerous job titles, i.e. security officer for the Village of
Oak Park and at Brach’s and Leaf Brand Companies to name a few. He also
furthered his education at Triton College. He later began working at Sanford Pen
Co, from where he retired.
He found a church home which was Union Hill where he was a choir member. He
then stepped out on faith and joined Broadview Baptist Church where he remained
a faithful servant until his health failed.
On April 24, 2020, Simon received his wings at Elmhurst Hospital.
He leaves to cherish: Six sisters, Christine, Vincia, Isaline, Rita, Joanna and
Annette; one brother, Emmanuel (Velma); his six children, Corinthia (4), Vinci (6),
Latrice, Christina (Michael), Sara and Terell; grandchildren, Makaila, Trae’Zhaun,
Jah’irelle, Jamirayah, Treazurè and Terell Jr.; a special friend, Lueverne Houston; and
a host of nieces, nephews, friends and others.
It’s said to be that angels are sent from above.
I’ve always had my angel
-my brother-
Whose heart was filled with love.
~Love Your Brother & Sisters
Until We Meet Again
We think about you always,
We talk about you still.
You have never been forgotten,
And you never will.
We hold you close within our hearts
And there you will remain.
To walk and guide us through our lives.
Until we meet again.
~Love Your Special Friend, LaVerne
A golden heart stopped beating,
hard working hands at rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us,
He only takes the best.
~Love Your Children
Those we love don’t go away,
they walk beside us every day.
Unseen, unheard but always near,
so loved, so missed, so very dear.
~Love Your Grandchildren
Musical Prelude .............................................................................................
Processional ....................................................................... Family and Minister
MC ........................................................................................ Deidra Robinson
Scripture ................................................................................... Jamal Houston
Prayer ............................................................................. Rev. Renard Houston
Solo/Selection .............................................................. Rev Roosevelt Bradley Jr.
Acknowledgements and Resolutions ..................................................................
Remarks ..................................................................................... 2 min. please
Obituary Reading ..................................................................... Deidra Robinson
Solo/Selection ................................................................... Rev. Renard Houston
Eulogy ................................................................................. Min. Joanne Fields
Reviewal .......................................................................................................
Benediction ........................................................................................ Minister
Recessional ........................................................................ Family and Minister
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Wake: 10:00 a.m. Funeral: 12:00 p.m.
Smith and Thomas Funeral Home
5708 W. Madison St. Chicago, IL 60644
Min. Joanne Fields, Officiating Pastor