Alexander Gene Francis

Marion, Virginia / Charleston, South Carolina

Alexander Gene Francis, age 32, ‘Alex’, passed away Thursday, December 5th, at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston after a hard-fought battle with a sudden illness. 

Alex grew up in Marion, Virginia where he thrived with his OC group. He excelled in academics, participated in many sports, and formed many life-long friendships. Alex attended Wake Forest University on a ROTC scholarship, again excelling in everything he put his mind to. Upon graduation, Alex served in the U.S. Army doing multiple overseas assignments, before retiring at the rank of Captain in 2022. Alex had a genuine soul, always making those in his presence smile. He was outgoing in taking care of his friends and family, never putting himself first. Alex greatly enjoyed having company visit to hit the beach or just spend time together; especially if he got to introduce them to his animals, notably his dogs Toby, Bonnie and Clyde. Wake Forest sports were a common topic of conversation, as you often got an analysis whether you solicited it or not. He will be remembered as a kind and loving person by all who met him, from childhood friends to college friends, fellow soldiers, or anyone else that crossed his path. 

Alex was preceded in death by his father, Donald Meek Francis.

 Alex is survived by his wife, Cassidy Wiley Francis of Charleston, South Carolina; his mother, Jeannie Hendon Francis of Marion, Virginia; his older brother David Francis, his twin brother Michael Francis, and third brother William Rose; his father-in-law, Sean Wiley, mother-in-law Brandy Wiley, sisters-in-law Ruth and Reese Wiley; aunt and uncle, Susan and Robert Francis; aunt and uncle, Liz and Scott Studer; aunt and uncle, Wendy and Mike Hendon. 

 A Celebration of life will be held Saturday, December 21, 2024 from 12 until 2 p.m. at Fraziers’ Seaver-Brown Chapel, 237 East Main Street, Marion Virginia. Internment will immediately follow at Round Hill Cemetery, Cemetery Street, Marion, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Smyth County Humane Society, PO Box 1124, Marion, Virginia 24354.

The family extends its overwhelming gratitude to his care team at MUSC. 

To share memories of Alex Gene Francis, please visit www.seaverbrown.com. Care for Alex has been entrusted to Fraziers’ Seaver-Brown Funeral Service & Crematory, 237 East Main Street, Marion VA 24354.