Dwight, May. 12, 1946 - Ill. — Dec. 26, 2022Joel A. Francis, 76, of Dwight, IL, passed away on December 26, 2022, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, IL.

He was born on May 12, 1946, in Prairie Township in Crawford County, IL, to Warden and Edra Nash Francis. He married Sharon K. Richardson in Robinson, IL on July 31, 1965. She passed away on April 6, 2022.

Surviving are his children, Laura (Joe) Dolan of Washington, IL; John (Carrie) Francis of Joliet, IL; his grandchildren, Nicholas Dolan of East Peoria; Alexander (Sami) Dolan of East Peoria; Bailey Dolan of Washington, IL; Victoria Francis of Coal City, IL; Aria Francis of United Kingdom; Jacob and Samantha of Joliet; and one sister, Norita (Don) Jacobs of Robinson, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, one sister, Velma Richards, and one brother, Richard Francis.

An Army veteran, Joel proudly served his country during the Vietnam War.

Joel worked for Caterpillar in Joliet for 32 years, retiring in 1997.

Joel loved to travel and especially loved camping. He was also an animal lover and loved feeding his birds and squirrels.

Cremation rites will be accorded, and the family will have a gathering and celebration at a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to the Livingston County Animal Control. Online tributes and condolences may be sent to the family at knappjohnsonharris.com.