Gary L. Francisco

Gary L. Francisco passed away peacefully on Monday, December 2, 2024. Gary grew up hiking, fishing and riding in the mountains and rivers of the New River Valley. A lifelong Hokie, he graduated from Blacksburg High School before continuing his education to become a Certified Public Accountant. He owned and operated a successful firm, Francisco & Associates, from 1977 until 2015 and then continued to serve clients as a Financial Advisor with his investment firm, Wealthguard Inc. To know Gary was to have a loyal and trusted friend, a positive perspective, and sound counsel. Through his 77 years, he opened his heart and home to friends who became family.

Gary kept his family and friends at the center of his life. He married his soulmate and forever love, Joan Williams Francisco in 1967; they sang, laughed, and loved each other every day since. He adored his children, Sean, Shanna, and Shea with every fiber of his being. He raised them to trust in love and the goodness of God and humanity and to always honor and protect God's creations. He adored his grandchildren Sienna, Elena, Isla, Ryder, Grayson, Cashel, Marhaid and Nola scarcely missing a game, performance, or function. The legacy of love and celebration of family continues on at the Francisco's, where all are welcome and family.

Gary was a beloved husband, father, brother, son, uncle, grandfather, riverman, storyteller, jingle-writer, coach and miracle maker. He is proceeded in death by his parents, Edsel and Nelva Francisco, sister Barbara Brown, sons Shea Francisco, and Robert King. 

He is survived by his wife, Joan Francisco and children Sean & Lina Francisco, Shanna Francisco-King, and Jennifer Preston. Grandchildren Sienna, Elena & Isla King; Ryder, Greyson, and Cashel Francisco, and Marhaid and Nola Preston. Sister and Brother in law June & Robert Anderson, and Robert Brown. Nieces and Nephews Amy & Scott Guilliams, Denise Gordon, Kimberly and Renny Siciliano, Gary & Julie Roach and David Roach. Dear loved ones who cared for Gary daily Sandra & Sandy Lucus, Amadeus Lelande, Caley Bower, and so many special friends and extended family.

The love and positive impact of his life in this universe lives on in each of your stories, memories, and songs.