David C. Francis

David Charles Francis, 80, of Fernandina Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2025. Born on May 29, 1945, in Gloucester, Massachusetts, David lived life to the fullest, enjoying tours of microbreweries, attending college football games, or watching his son’s and grandchildren’s sporting events.

David is survived by his wife of 55 years, Karen Joy Schaefer, whom he met in 1966, while attending Nasson College in Springvale, Maine. David and Karen raised two boys, Justin and Josh, whom they put through college and remained active in their lives as they raised families of their own.

As a youth, David worked at fish markets in Rockport, Massachusetts, and later loved to tell stories about competitors stamping out shark meat to be sold as scallops or other life lessons he learned. After completing college in 1967, David joined the Army, and after serving two years, was honorably discharged. He and Karen got married soon after, and David began working at the Mutual of New York (MONY) life insurance company, eventually being promoted to the position of Vice President. David and Karen started out in Washingtonville, NY, where David commuted into New York City for 18 years. David later moved the family to Stratham, NH, but after 6 years decided it was time to move south to a warmer climate, where David and Karen settled in Fernandina Beach, Florida. Not one to slow down, David continued to work until the age of 75, when he finally retired, and was able to spend more time with Karen camping, taking cruises, and traveling the world. When not traveling, David enjoyed his daily walks with their loyal dog Wiley, creating bonfires in the yard, and enjoying the occasional cigar.

Final internment will take place in Beech Grove Cemetery in Rockport, Massachusetts, followed by a Celebration of Life. Details forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in David’s memory to a local animal shelter or veteran’s organization of your choice.