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Friends say goodbye to Francis
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Retired Rio Rancho Police Officer John Francis passed away July 15 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. For the past couple of weeks, he was in hospice care and was only given a few weeks to live.
Francis' friends in the Rio Rancho community reached out to say goodbye.
"To the man that wore many hats around New Mexico and in the community of Rio Rancho, you’ll be missed beyond comprehension. Know that your legacy will live on and you will never be forgotten for as long as I live. I love you my dear friend. RIP," Tanya Harden said.
Harden, who started a GoFundMe and fundraisers for Francis, wants to thank the community for showing its support. The GoFundMe reached a little more than $23,000, but Harden is still requesting donations to help with funeral costs.
Rio Rancho Public Schools was appreciative for Francis' service as well.
"John started working for Rio Rancho Public Schools in 2011 and served in several different roles. He was committed to the well-being of our students and staff. His ability to build strong relationships, infectious sense of humor and tireless work ethic endeared him to everyone who had the privilege of working with him," said Beth Pendergrass, chief communications, strategy and engagement officer for the district.
She added the schools will remember him.
"John will be remembered for his professional achievements, warmth, kindness and unwavering dedication to his community. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched and the lasting impact he made. He will be missed tremendously by all who knew him," she said.
Rio Rancho Police Department Capt. Jacquelynn Reedy, on behalf of Chief Stewart Steele and all members of the Rio Rancho Police Department, shared condolences and expressed sadness for Francis' passing.
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of retired officer John Francis of the Rio Rancho Police Department. Officer Francis, who was hired in March 1988 under the DPS umbrella, and dedicated over three decades of exemplary service to our community. Throughout his career, he responded to fire, EMT and police calls with unwavering commitment. Officer Francis was not only an integral part of our department but also an active and beloved member of the community. He made significant contributions through his work in community relations, bike patrol and the DARE program, and he was known for his great heart and dedication to various causes, especially the Special Olympics," she said.
"He was instrumental in organizing Christmas events for kids, food drives and Neighborhood Watch programs, touching countless lives with his generosity and spirit. As one of the original board members of the Sunshine Fund, Officer Francis helped provide support and hope to those in need," Reedy continued. "Throughout his distinguished career, he served in various roles, including officer, public information officer, coordinator of public relations and sergeant, always striving to bridge the gap between the police force and the community. Officer Francis became such a household name in the city of Rio Rancho that, to this day, people still believe he was the chief of police. We will greatly miss joking with 'Chief Francis,' as our paths frequently crossed while he faithfully served the students of the Rio Rancho Public School District.
"Officer John Francis will be remembered for his selfless service, kindness and unwavering dedication to the Rio Rancho community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire us all," Reedy shared
A public service will be held for Francis at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church at 10 a.m. July 27, followed by a last call at noon and then a reception at the Rio Rancho High School Cafeteria at 2 p.m.
