Emily Lou Roach Francis Obituary
We announce the death of Emily Lou Roach Francis of Java, Virginia, who passed away on October 11, 2026, at the age of 85. Emily will be remembered by family members, friends, and others whose lives were connected in meaningful ways. Family and friends can send flowers and condolences in memory of the loved one. Leave a sympathy message to the family on the memorial page of Emily Lou Roach Francis to pay them a last tribute.
Emily will be remembered for the impact she had on the lives of those around her. Friends, family, and colleagues will cherish their memories and the time shared. Those who knew Emily will remember moments of kindness, warmth, and presence. Though words cannot fully capture her life, the legacy of connections and experiences remains. Emily’s absence will be deeply felt by those who valued her companionship.
She was loved and cherished by many people including: parents: Claude S. Roach and Missouri Elizabeth Davis Roach; husband: Lawrence N. Francis; siblings: Cora Norcutt, Elvin Betterton, Sallie Pruitt, Garnett Hammock, Margaret Riddle, Helen Marie Roach, Percy Roach, Bobby Lee Roach, Marion "Shakey" Roach, Cecil Roach, Wayne Roach, and foster brothers David Hollingsworth and Paul Hollingsworth; children: Annette Burke (Eddie), Sandra Francis Gregory (Chris), and Lawrence N. "Binky" Francis II (Lisa); grandchildren: Michael "Mikey" Pruitt (Michelle), Mandy May Dalton (Shane), Leslie Burke Phillippi (Hunter), Amy Lea Lawson (David), Jamie Purnell, Wesley Francis (Jasmine), Jordan Francis, and Ethan Francis (Alyssa); great-grandchildren: Jodie Dalton Robertson (Collin), Jacob Dalton, Paisley Jo Gilly, Meagan Pruitt Robertson (William), Wyatt Pruitt, Destiny Lawson, Piper Lawson, Parker Francis, and Amelia Francis; great-great-grandchildren: Barrett Robertson and Layna Rae Pruitt; other: Pastor Zach Hyler and Pastor Donald Shields.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 13th 2026 from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Norris Funeral Services & Crematory - Chatham Chapel (147 S Main St, Chatham, VA 24531). A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 14th 2026 at 2:00 PM at the Shockoe Baptist Church (548 Spring Garden Rd, Chatham, VA 24531).
