Search by Name

Search by Name

Charles Francis Obituary

JOHNSON CITY - Charles Kenneth (Kenny) Francis passed away on April 10, 2023, after a long battle with Cancer. He was Born December 21, 1942, in Chattanooga, but lived the majority of his life in Johnson City, TN. He proudly served his country, in the United States Navy from 1963-1967. Kenny was an avid Tennessee Vols fan, Loved music of all kinds, as well as bowling. He proudly wore his "Perfect 300 game ring." Kenny was married to his best friend and love of his life, Cathy (Cat) Francis. She and his little buddy, JoJo will miss him terribly.

After the navy, Kenny worked as accounting manager at Rainbow Bakery in Houston, TX as well as Kerns Bakery in Bristol, VA. He worked for 12 years at Regal office Supply in Johnson City. He and Cat were owners of C&K Vending for 15 years. Kenny finished his work life, doing what he loved, at Holiday Lanes.

He was proceeded in death by his Parents, C.W. and Ruth Francis, Brother Jimmy, Sister Connie and best friend Kenny Leonard. Left to cherish his memory are his brother Bobby, as well as many generations of nieces and nephews. It was Kennys wish that his body be donated to medical research in the fight against cancer and that his remains be cremated. A celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Johnson City Press on Apr. 12, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Francis

Not sure what to say?





4 Entries

Wayne Kosloski

November 20, 2024

Ken with our friends in the Philippines.

Wayne Kosloski

November 20, 2024

My name is Wayne Kosloski. Ken was one of my best friends in the Navy aboard the USS Prairie AD15. We had a lot of good times together and we shared an apartment in San Diego. I was just thinking about him and decided to Google his name and found his obituary. My condolences to his family.

Michael Kerr

April 20, 2023

Cathy, I am so sorry to hear about Ken, he will be missed, I am sorry I haven't stayed in touch after leaving bowling and have missed so many of my friends, I have so many good memories of or Ken and you and I hold those memories dear to my heart. My love and prayers to you.

Glenn Hughes

April 15, 2023

So sorry for your loss. I bowled with Ken for several years in leagues at Holiday Lanes. Great memories at the lanes.

Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results

Make a Donation
in Charles Francis's name

Memorial Events
for Charles Francis

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Charles's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Charles Francis's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more