Benjamin Colonel Francis

Benjamin C. Francis Jr., 85, of Springdale, a Korean War Navy veteran, went to be with his Savior whom he loved and served for many years, on Monday, Oct. 7, 2013, at the Veterans Home in Fayetteville. He was born in Russellville on Sept. 4, 1928. He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin C. Francis Sr. and Annie Mae; brother, John; and daughter, Linda Gilland. He is survived by his sisters, Nellie Houser of Helendale, Calif., Ellen Guinn of Springdale Ark., Marjorie Francis of Show Low, Ariz.,: brothers, Ed (Carol) of Canton, Ga., and Garland (Marion) of Dayton, N.V. He is survived by granddaughter, Sarah Evans and grandson, Carl Giland, of Kewanee, Ill., and foster-children, David and Patty Dryer; and many nieces and nephews around the country; and his best friend, Mary Hubbard of Rogers, Ark. Ben was a professional painter. He pastored churches in Arkansas and Missouri. Peaceful Valley Bible was his church home. He loved camping and fishing, but his true passion was studying and teaching the Bible, especially prophecy about the coming of Christ. He was always a source of inspiration and humor. We will miss him. Graveside funeral service will be 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9, at the National Cemetery in Fayetteville, with Bro. Bill Pettigrew and Bro. Ken Francis presiding. Arrangements Epting Funeral Home Fayetteville. Condolences: www.eptingfuneralhome.webs.com.