Roger P. Francis, age 87, of Hockessin, DE, passed away on September 25, 2025.
Born and raised in White Marsh, MD, Roger graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in business and later earned his MBA from PMC College (now Widener University). Over the years, he lived in Tamaqua, PA, Wilmington, DE, and Hockessin, DE.
Roger devoted 30 years of his career to the same organization, which evolved through several mergers and reorganizations. During that time, his work spanned diverse industries including gunpowder, animal health, and pharmaceuticals. The company transitioned from Atlas Powder to ICI Americas, and ultimately Zeneca, where he served as Director of Licensing and Business Development. After leaving Zeneca, he continued his career for three years as Sr. Vice President of Licensing and Business Development at Cygnus Inc. in Redwood City, CA, before retiring.
Community involvement was important to Roger. He volunteered in many settings, including church, youth sports, and the social committee at Cokesbury Village. He was especially proud of his service as Commissioner of the Piedmont Little League.
Outside of work and volunteering, Roger had a lifelong love of boating. He and his wife, Judy, spent countless joyful hours on the Chesapeake Bay and traveled regularly with the Sassafras River Yacht Club, where he once served as Commandant.
Roger is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Judy Francis (née Wofford), and his three sons and daughters-in-law: David and Lois Francis of Kemblesville, PA; Duane and Sandy Francis of Pompano Beach, FL; and Mark and Jennie Francis of Wallingford, PA. He was a proud grandfather to Christine Francis (Aaron), Alyssa Gombach (Jack), Kaitlyn Francis, Bailey Francis, Madison Francis, and John Francis, and great-grandfather to Taylor Price. He is also survived by several cousins and extended family.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Cokesbury Village and its hospice unit for the compassionate care provided to Roger, Judy, and their family.
A service for Roger will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Cokesbury Village in the Lower Atrium.
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