Sylvester Sonny Francis, 78, of Palatka, entered the sunset of life on Wednesday, December 8, 2010 at Safe Harbour Adult Living Facility in Fort Lauderdale, following a brief illness. He was born on June 15, 1932 in Palatka to Lucius and Johnnie Mae Francis. At an early age Sonny left Palatka in pursuit of his life of traveling and exploring life as a cowboy which led him to develop a passion for the sport of rodeo and hunting. As an avid rodeo rider, he also trained riders that later became prominent in the sport of rodeo. Sonny had a very fulfilling life doing the things he loved to do. His love for Gods beautiful nature was reflected through his love for animals, especially horses and through his gratification in gardening. As the passionate Cowboy, during his state-to-state travels, he briefly settled in numerous regions. While working on farms in Georgia, he met his belated wife, Charlie Louise Birgs Francis and they were the parents of nine children, seven of whom preceded them in eternal rest, specifically, Deloris Ann Anthony, Sylvester S. Francis, Jr., Charlie Mae Celestin, Gwendolyn Francis, Katie Jean Williams, Michael Francis, and Ethel Mae Francis. During his truck driving career, while in Benton Harbor, Michigan, in 1963, met Helen Choate and they relocated to Long Beach, California where they resided for over 35 years. While residing in California, he commenced a long-term career as a licensed plumber for Pipe Line Plumbing through retirement. In 1998, Sonny and Helen relocated to his hometown, Palatka where they joined and fellowshipped at Greater Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. He continued to enjoy retirement by spending time with his loved ones, fishing, gardening, and caring for his two goats and his beloved dog, Toro.

Helen preceded Sonny in eternal rest on September 6, 2006 and sisters, Mildred Bolling, Lizzi Mae Ward, Annie Lee Callaway & Brother, Arnet Francis.

He leaves to cherish his memories: daughters, Annie Marie Francis, Atlanta, GA; Carol Annette Francis, Dania; and Sara Anne Browning, Spring Hill, FL; Step-sister, Evelyn Green, Palatka; 12grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; and a devoted niece, Barbara Christian, Vineland, NJ; and other loving relatives and caring friends.

Visitation of family and friends will be 5-8 p.m. Friday, December 10 with Homegoing Services at 12 noon Saturday, December 11 at the Chapel of Serenity, with Reverend Anthony Q. Robinson, Jr., pastor of Greater Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, officiating.

Interment will be in Oak Hill East Cemetery.