OBITUARY: Wayne H. Francis, 68

Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:

WILMINGTON, MA — With deep sadness and so much love, we announce the passing of Wayne H. Francis, who left us on September 20, 2025, at the Lahey Clinic in Burlington, surrounded by his family.

Wayne was born in Melrose, MA, on November 10, 1956; he was the cherished son of the late Donald and Lorraine (Wheeler) Francis. He was raised in Wilmington, where he built a life rooted in love, family, and community.

Wayne was the rock of our family. He had a way of making everyone around him feel welcome, valued, and deeply loved. His greatest joy was being surrounded by his family, whether it was grilling steak tips in the backyard, cheering on the Patriots on a Sunday afternoon, or simply enjoying time together at home. Family was at the center of everything he did, and he never missed a chance to show how proud he was of his children and grandchildren.

Wayne also had a strong work ethic and a deep sense of loyalty. For over 40 years, he proudly drove trucks for Robert Francis Construction, his brother’s business. He loved the work he did and the relationships he built along the way, and he was respected by all who knew him in and out of the job.

He shared an extraordinary love with his late wife, Jaye. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, warmth, and countless memories. Their bond was unshakable, and their love story will forever remain an example of true partnership and devotion.

Wayne was the beloved husband and best friend of the late Jaye (Barry) Francis, devoted father of Tammy Francis of Wilmington, Wayne Francis, Jr. and companion Raychel Pappas of Wilmington, Shawn Francis and wife Amanda of Tewksbury, Laura Francis and companion Eric Creekmore of Wilmington, and Jillian Whitney and husband Michael of Gloucester. Loving “Papa” of Alexis Costa and husband Vincent, Drew Depalma and wife Sydnie, Kara Whitney, Jordyn Doyle, Jaelyn Creekmore, Kaycee Whitney, Harley Francis, Emma Francis, Joseph Whitney, Jesse Creekmore, Stephanie Francis, Zoey Francis, and great-grandchildren Thomas and Jaxon Depalma. Dear brother of Robert Francis and wife Ann of Groveland and Donald Francis of Wilmington. Wayne is also survived by many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Wayne’s love, kindness, and gentle presence touched everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on in the family he adored and in the many lives he made brighter just by being himself.

We will miss him dearly but hold tight to the love he gave so freely and the memories he leaves behind.

Family and friends will gather for Visiting Hours at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, MA, on Thursday, September 25th, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass for Wayne will take place at St. Thomas of Villanova Church, 126 Middlesex Ave., Wilmington, MA, on Friday, September 26th, at 10:30 a.m., followed by his interment in Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington, MA.

To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.