Obituary of Roderick Peter Francis

Francis, Roderick Peter: It is the utmost sorrow that we announce the sudden but peaceful passing of our Husband, Father, Papa, Brother, Uncle, Friend, Roddie Francis of the Pictou Landing First Nation on March 14, 2020. Roddie was born on Sept. 17, 1954 to his late parents, Dennis and Alice (Knockwood) Francis. Roddie was a former Chief of Pictou Landing having served as a Councillor for several years before becoming Chief for 10 years. During time as Chief, Roddie was a part of the formation of the Confederacy of Mainland Mikmaq (CMM). After the passing of the former District Chief, John Knockwood in 2008, Roddie was given the Honor of becoming the District Chief of Mainland Nova Scotia and served in that position with pride until his passing. Roddie was the last surviving Founder of the Confederacy of Mainland Mikmaq, which was founded by the First Nation Bands of Nova Scotia in 1986. During his years as Chief, Roddie helped accomplish many great things for his community. One of which was the land claim settlement, that he worked alongside the late Chief Raymond Francis, Daniel Paul and Dan MacDonald and Fellow Council members of the time. In his earlier years Roddie worked in different positions; he was the community Special Constable, the Fire Chief, community bus driver and fisherman. Roddie began his fishing career when he was 16, while he was deckhand for George MacFarlane. He also was mentored by his father-in-law Martin Sapier for a number of seasons. Roddie eventually obtained his own gear and boat “The Golden Hawk” in 1981 but decided to sell before becoming Chief, so he could concentrate on working with his community without distractions. Roddie was a big advocate for the fishing industry in Pictou Landing and all Mikmaq. He was always thinking of ways to help the fishery grow and be successful. He always made sure to attend all the meetings involving anything fisheries related so he would be informed about any changes that would be of concern for all the fisherman of Pictou Landing. With his outgoing and friendly personality Rod had no problem making new friends wherever he went. Rod had great respect for all the Chiefs that he worked with especially District Chief Alex Christmas whose friendship began many years ago when they were both Chiefs of their communities. Roddie leaves behind his loving wife of 39 years Shirley, son Roderick (lowly), daughters Javenny and Holly(Christian). Along with his most precious granddaughter Bella Irene for whom he would have moved the moon and the stars for. Brothers Don (Melanee), Allan (Mary), John Andrew; sisters Mary Lou, Linda, Dolores, Ann (Donnie), Deanna (Joe) all of Pictou Landing and sister, Linda Lou of Millbrook. Rod was predeceased by his parents Dennis and Alice Francis, brothers Dennis, Randall and Gilbert. Rod also leaves many nieces and nephews and God-children Tonya, Katie, Vanessa and Rachel, all of whom were dear to his heart. We would like to thank everyone who supported us during this difficult time. A special thank-you to everyone who posted such beautiful Tributes for Rod; your kind thoughtful words will always be remembered. Due to current restrictions for gatherings of large groups it has been decided to delay the wake and funeral to a later date which will be announced. Roddie will be waked at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church with a Christian Burial at the parish cemetery. www.angusfuneralhomes.com