James David Francis 

"Dave" 

June 20, 1934 - May 29, 2026

James David Francis, Dave, of Memphis, passed away on May 29,2026, at the age of 91. He lived a life of service, hard work, and dedication to his family and community.

 After graduating from Humes High School in 1953, Dave proudly served as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves for nine years. He went on to work as an engineer at the Manned Spacecraft Center in Texas, where he contributed to both the Gemini and Apollo missions. During that time, he was also a member of the Jaycees in Clear Lake, Texas, where he served alongside several astronauts 

.An avid fisherman, Dave was a charter member of the Memphis Bass Club and served as an officiator of the St. Jude Bass Classic for many years. He was preceded in death by his wife, Juanita, and his brother, Mark.

 He is survived by his sister, Liz (Ronnie); his children, Kathy, David, and Faith (Tom); four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

www.stjude.org