Gregory Lee Francis
Gregory Lee Francis, age 64 of Erie, passed away the morning of January 9, 2025 at his home. He was in the presence of love and prayer with his wife and caregiver Laurie and childhood friend Mary Rae by his side.
He left peacefully, having fought an incredibly brave two-month battle with stage IV pancreatic cancer.
Greg was born in Erie on August 20, 1960 to the late Edward and Charlotte (Gleisner) Francis. He was a 1978 graduate of Tech Memorial High School.
Following graduation, Greg enjoyed using his God-given talents in woodworking at various local cabinet shops. Greg worked as Millwork Shop Foreman at Building Systems, Inc. of Erie where he was employed for 21 years. In his position Greg completed many prestigious projects throughout PA, OH and NY. Greg was known for his keen eye and meticulous attention to detail with every BSI project, including the completion in 7 days of Erie‘s first testing facility, during the pandemic in 2019, for UPMC. He worked proudly alongside the BSI Team to complete this important work.
Greg greatly loved fishing, along with canoeing and camping. He also enjoyed skiing, gardening, cooking, and music. In recent years he developed a passion for chess and a keen interest in world affairs.
He doted on his feline family, KJ, Casey, and Nero, and dreamt of starting an animal shelter with Laurie.
Greg‘s favorite destinations were New York City, Florida, and the Adirondacks. He held fond memories of family fishing trips to Memquisit Lodge on Lake Nipissing, Ontario.
Greg and Laurie were married November 12, 2004 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, the church of Greg‘s upbringing, as well as that of his father-in-law, Norman. They had a strong foundation of 35 years together. One of their most cherished pastimes was to spend an evening with family and friends by a campfire on a beautiful starry night.
Greg was extremely grateful for his core group of friends who have supported and loved each other through this journey called life. They remember him with great affection and a smile.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Laurie Jean Rudolph-Francis. He is also survived by a sister, Pam, and a brother, Dale.
Additionally, he is survived by his sister-in-law, Amy (Rudolph) Carver and nephew Benjamin Carver (Eleanor), as well as brother-in-law, Dr. Christian Rudolph (Michelle) and nephew Alexander Rudolph.
In addition to his parents, Greg is predeceased by his in-laws Martha (Massing) and Dr. Norman Rudolph.
We are certain his beloved grandmother, Lillian Gleisner, was there to meet him as Greg opened his eyes to the Gift of Eternal Life.
Askins Funeral and Cremation Services, 8354 Wattsburg Rd., Erie PA 16509 is assisting with arrangements.
Burial is private at the convenience of the family.
A Spring Celebration of Life will be announced and published at a later date.
“Ar dheis De’ go raibh a anam dilis”