John "Tito" G. Francis

John “Tito” Francis, age 76, passed away peacefully on Sept 23 surrounded by his family at South Shore Hospital in Weymouth. He was born on July 31, 1946, in Boston, MA to Claude and Helen (Wickes) Francis.

Tito is survived by his loving wife, Jane (Haley); two daughters, Kate and Sara; and 3 grandchildren Destiny, Lucas, and Devon, all of Quincy. Also survived by his brothers James, and his wife Maureen of Plymouth; Edward, and his wife Jane of Kingston; and Michael, and his wife Sandie of Milton. He will be remembered by extended family including many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was predeceased by his sister Helen Zibuda.

He was a graduate of Archbishop Williams High School in Braintree, MA where he played baseball and basketball.  In his senior year, he made the All-Catholic Conference All Star basketball first team.

After graduating high school he began a long career as a truck driver, delivering Drake’s cakes and then packages for Airborne Express. Upon retiring from the Teamsters Local 25, every morning he would read the Globe and go for a walk up Wollaston Hill off Beale Street.  He knew the importance of reading and exercise to keep the mind and body sharp. He played basketball into his 50’s along with many of his friends.

Everyone who knew Tito appreciated his quick wit and keen sense of humor. He was a natural comedian.  His house had an open door policy, all were welcome to join the party and watch the game and stay for Sunday dinner.  He loved fast cars and was well known around Quincy for his 1971 GTO. TIto enjoyed nature, going for cruises in his Corvette to enjoy the fall colors or driving his Blazer onto Duxbury Beach. He was an avid music lover; with tons of concert t-shirts, albums and 45’s to show for it.  A somewhat hidden talent, Tito also was an incredible artist who drew student athletes for the Milton Times.  

All who knew him and loved him are invited to attend his wake and funeral, being held on Wednesday, September 28th, from 4-7pm at Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home and Thursday, September 29th at 10:30am at St. Agatha’s Church, Milton, MA; followed by a gathering at The Common Market, Quincy, MA.

In lieu of flowers, please send a donation in John's name to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 70 Walnut Street, Suite 301, Wellesley, MA 02481.

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