BOYKINS—Kenneth Woodrow Francis left to be with our Lord on April 16, 2013 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 17, 1947 to Herbert Mack Francis and Doris Avent Francis, Kenny lived most of his adult life in Southampton County. Raised on a farm, he had a deep love of the land and enjoyed being outdoors – farming, hunting, fishing, working in the yard or just sitting outside enjoying nature. He loved riding his motorcycle, often riding with Mike, his son, and riding his little dog, Miniwheat, around on the John Deere Gator. He had a deep and abiding love for his family and was a devoted husband and father, brother, brother-in-law, and uncle. He enjoyed vacationing in the mountains and staying in isolated little cabins and enjoying the view.

Kenny was a 1967 graduate of Southampton High School and shortly thereafter was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he was honorably discharged after serving with top security clearance at the Nike Hercules Missile Facility in Germany. Upon his return home, he was approached by Sheriff Brooks and offered a job with the Southampton County Sheriff’s Office, where he retired as Major and Chief Deputy after 40 years of dedicated service to the department and citizens of Southampton County.

He was a member of Capron United Methodist Church, Shiloh Hunt Club, a former member of the Capron Ruritans, a member of the Virginia and National Sheriff’s Association, and the National FBI Association. He was a 1990 graduate of the 162nd Session of the National FBI Academy in Quantico, VA.

Kenneth was predeceased by his parents, a sister, Shirley Francis Spruill, and sister-in-law, Thelma Francis.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Lil; his son, Mike, and fiancée, Amanda Hassenger; brother, Berkley Francis; brother-in-law, David Nurney; sister-in-law, Ashley Nurney Cody; nephews, Brian Francis and Dennis Spruill and numerous cousins. Kenny loved his family with all his heart and has left behind many wonderful memories that will never be forgotten. Not to be forgotten are his special nurses at the MCV Satellite Oncology Clinic in Emporia, Wendy, Robin and Linda, and his special hospice nurses, Carmen and Selena, as well as his special friends, Darlene and Richard Boone, who helped so very much with caring for him during his illness.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday in the Capron Cemetery with Mr. Richard Simms officiating. Hunters are encouraged to wear their camouflage clothes, if they so desire. Any memorial donations are requested to be made to Massey Cancer Clinic, VCU-MCV Hospital, P.O. Box 843042, Richmond, VA 23284. Wright Funeral Home is assisting the family. www.wrightfuneralhome.org.