Francis Vergara Jr.

Vergara – Francis Jr., 90, of Hopewell departed this world and entered into a life of eternal peace on April 27, 2017 after an extended illness. Francis was born in Richmond, Virginia on August 5, 1926, and lived the vast majority of his life in Hopewell. He joins in heaven his beloved wife, Janet Wallace Vergara; his parents, Frank and Felicia Vergara; his brother Russell Vergara (Symbaline) and sisters Marian Vergara Letchworth (John) and Elsie Vergara Stidham (Junior). He is survived by his brother, James J. Vergara, Sr.; children, Marilyn Davis (Chuck), Donna Williamson (Robert), Francis Vergara III – Frank, Angela Howsmon (John), and Raymond Vergara – Ray; grandchildren, Lauren Davis, Brent Hipps (Anne), Bryce Hipps (Ashley), Karey Williamson, Taylor Howsmon, Mary Frances Howsmon, Nick Vergara, and Konstantin Sannikov; and a host of nieces and nephews. Along with his brothers, Francis took over operations of the family business, Vergara’s Cleaners. Eventually, he became the sole proprietor, and his son Ray currently owns and operates the business. Francis has been a lifelong member of St. James Catholic Church and was a long-time member of the Knights of Columbus and The Lions Club. Additionally, he has contributed significantly to a number of other community organizations over the years. Francis was a passionate tennis player; he played several times a week well into his 80’s. He had a very special way of attracting people with his vivacious personality; his love of life gave him an incessant desire to get to know as many people as possible. While his loved ones grieve their loss, they celebrate his long, full life and feel blessed to have had so much time with him. During his illness, he never complained, and his spirit was never destroyed. The family would like to acknowledge and thank the staff at Sunflower Gardens/Brighter Living, who lovingly cared for him and became part of his family over the last three years. A rosary will be held at J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home in Hopewell Monday, May 1st at 5:00 PM with visitation to follow until 8:00 PM. A Christian Mass of Burial and celebration of life will take place at 2:00 PM Tuesday, May 2nd at St. James Catholic Church in Hopewell; burial will follow at a later date In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Richmond, 4600 Cox Road, Suite 130, Glen Allen, VA 23060 in his memory. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com .