Obituary for Lionel Francis | Donaldson Funeral Home, P. A. (Laurel)
- Date Of Birth: January 1, 1953
- Date Of Death: October 9, 2019
- State: Maryland
Lionel Francis (Papa Pump) age 66, passed away on October 9 2019 surrounded by family in his home in Laurel MD.
Born January 1 1953 in Port Au Prince Haiti, son of the late William Francis and Georgette Nerette. He moved to the United States in 1970 and joined his family in New York City. Upon graduating high school, Lionel joined the United States Army. On the second of his three tours in Germany he met his eventual wife Donna Jean Graham. They were married on July 10, 1982 in Paoli PA. After receiving his bachelors degree from the University of Maryland, he rose to the rank of Warrant Officer at Fort Hood before being honorably discharged. The couple had their first child, Cassondra Elizabeth (Francis) Lyko in Germany before returning to the states.
Lionel has a legacy of being a hardworking man, dedicated father and grandfather, and an amazing member of the community. He was a great friend to all with fond memories of West Laurel, the fitness center, and the local soccer scene. He provided for his family at all times while also being sure to help any person he could.
Lionel is survived by his wife Donna, his son Collin, and his daughter Cassondra (her husband Brian and three daughters Mia, Marley, and Makayla). Lionel is also survived by his Mother Georgette, Brothers James, Jean, Woodley, Wildorf, Sisters Marie Claire, Armel, Elsie and Peggy. He has a very loving extended family not only in the United States but also in Haiti.