Ricardo Francis

In Loving Memory of Ricardo Francis

5/6/58 - 10/17/24

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ricardo Francis on October 17, 2024, at the age of 66. Born in the Dominican Republic on May 6, 1958, he was the beloved son of Leonel Francis and Sonia Mejia.

Ricardo immigrated to the United States as a young boy, where he built a life filled with hard work, love, and dedication to his family. Having met the love of his life, Hilda, in 1978, they married in New Jersey and went on to spend the next 44 years of their lives together, enjoying a lifetime of great memories. He embraced his new home while never forgetting his roots, instilling the values of resilience, ambition, hard work and Dominican pride in his family.

Known for his sense of humor, kindness, love of life, and go-getter personality, Ricardo dedicated his life to providing for his family, working tirelessly to ensure a bright future for his wife and children. With his million-dollar smile and infectious personality, to know him was to love him.

Even in passing, Ricardo gave the ultimate gift by choosing to be an organ donor, helping save lives and offering hope to others in need. His selfless act is a testament to the compassion and generosity that defined his life. His legacy will live on in the lives of all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving children, Jazmine (Dave) and Roger (Priscilla). Ricardo also leaves behind his loving grandchildren (Daniel, Naylani, Joshua, and Emani), siblings, as well as countless friends and extended family both in the U.S. and the Dominican Republic.

A celebration of Ricardo’s life will be held at the Union Funeral Home - Lytwyn & Grillo, 1600 Stuyvesant Avenue, Union, NJ, on Tuesday, October 22, from 10am to 1pm. Flowers or donations to the Disabled American Veterans Charity are welcomed.

Ricardo will be remembered for his unwavering love, his strength, and his deep sense of family. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.