Harry Moore Francis

Harry Moore Francis, 95, left this life on October 24, 2025.

He was born on July 18, 1930, in Halifax County, Virginia, to Noel Bernard Francis Sr. and Geneva Damaris Crabtree. He was the third of five children, but never the kind of middle child to go unnoticed.

Harry spent his childhood on the family farm before moving to Baltimore, MD. He graduated from Southern High School, class of 1948, before enlisting in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He proudly served on the USS Walke (DD-723) from 1951 to 1955.

After an honorable discharge, Harry returned to Baltimore and married Joan Lee MacKay. They settled into a little bungalow in Glen Burnie, MD, where they would raise four children. Harry had sworn that he would never move again, so the little house grew with the family—most of the construction done by Harry himself. But more than building just a house, Harry and Joan built a home rooted in love, strong values, and laughter—a place where family memories flourished and every guest felt welcomed.

Shortly after marrying, Harry attended night school at the University of Baltimore, earning a degree in Accounting. In 1966, he joined Tate Industries, where he served as comptroller until his retirement in 1995.

When he wasn’t working or with family, Harry could most often be found out on the water, fishing or crabbing. Those who knew him will never forget the easy joy of a day on his boat, catching blue crabs and swapping stories on the Chesapeake Bay. Family vacations on Harris Creek became an annual tradition, remembered by all as some of the happiest days of their lives.

Upon retirement, Harry built a workshop in his backyard, fondly named “The Sawdust Factory.” He crafted small furniture and decorative pieces, while Joan handled the staining and painting. Some of their creations were sold at craft fairs, but most remain treasured keepsakes in the homes of their children and grandchildren.

Harry and Joan were charter members of Townsend Avenue Baptist Church in Brooklyn, where he served faithfully as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, Awana leader, and church treasurer.

In his final years, Harry faced a long battle with dementia with the same quiet strength and grace that carried him through his great life. After five years of struggle, he is now at peace—reunited with his memories and with those who went before him.

Harry was predeceased by his beloved wife of 44 years, Joan; his sister, Damaris Miller; his brothers, Noel B. Francis Jr. and Robert Francis; and one grandson. He is survived by his sister, Christine Barclay; his four children, Gary Francis of Swoyersville, PA; Pam Saulsbury of Easton, MD; Scott Francis of Commerce, GA; and Jennifer Morton of Glen Burnie, MD; as well as 16 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

To know Harry was to love him. His laughter, steady presence, and devotion to his family will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives he touched.

Family and friends are invited to gather at the Fellowship Baptist Church, 1015 Sundown Road, Glen Burnie, MD 21061 on Friday November 7, 2025  for a "Family & Friend Remembrance" from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm where a Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 6:00 pm. His Interment will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in Harry's name to B.A.R.C.S. (Baltimore Animal Rescue & Care Shelter), 2490 Giles Road, Baltimore, MD 21223. Arrangements were handled by the Singleton Funeral & Cremation Services, PA, Glen Burnie, MD 21061.