Ronald L. Francis, Sr.

Ronald Louis Francis, Sr.

Ronald Louis Francis, Sr. (84), beloved husband of 63 years of Arlene Jean (Mainarich) passed peacefully on September 20, 2024, at UPMC Passavant Hospital from congestive heart failure.

Ron is survived by his five children, Kathleen [Jai] Ramos, Colleen [David] Pilarski, Ronald Jr. [Tina] Francis, Beth [Richard] Schmidt, and Kerry [Charles] McClellan along with 10 grandchildren: Sarah [Dinorah] Aguilar-Francis, Rebecca [Garrett] Aguilar Mooney, Franco [Julie] Francis, Abagail Francis, Gretchen Schmidt, Bridget Schmidt, Samuel Francis, Kathleen Francis, Ruthanne Pilarski, Robert Pilarski, and one great-grandson, Sebastián Aguilar.

Ron was the son of the late Paul Francis, Sr. and Ruth Francis (Kinley), and brother to Paul, Jr. [the late Ann], the late Dennis Francis, Kathleen [Charles] Krzywicki, and Sheila [Denis] Burke.

After graduating from St. Mary of the Mount High School (1958), Ron served in the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne in Ft. Bragg, NC and earned his paratrooper wings. Following his service, he began his work life as a barber in Millvale then worked as a PAT bus driver and driver instructor for over 25 years. Ron was elected as Recording Secretary of Local 85 and later served as secretary of the Port Authority Credit Union. After retirement, Ron enjoyed his part-time jobs as a suite supervisor and tour guide for Acrisure Stadium (Heinz Field) and shuttle van driver for Vincentian Terrace Place.

Ron considered Millvale as his hometown but also spent several of his formative years on Mt. Washington. After a brief time in Avalon, Ron and Arlene lived on Walnut Road in Ben Avon for 56 years before moving to Vincentian Terrace Place.

Ron enjoyed a long, full life dedicated to his family. Ron was happiest being with his whole family and made a lifetime of happy memories to cherish. Ron completed numerous marathons and loved spending time with family at “Pappy’s Camp” in Clarion County. Ron also treasured his circle of friends from A.A. and celebrated 54 years of sobriety in May. Ron was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to: Vincentian Charitable Foundation (https://vcfgives.us/), the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank (https://pittsburghfoodbank.org/), or the Gateway Rehabilitation Center (https://www.gatewayrehab.org/resources/get-involved/donate-now).

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