Thomas James Francis, born November 7, 1952, in Springfield, MA, passed away on June 18, 2026.
Tom was predeceased by his mother, Violet Daugneault, his father, Edward Francis, and his brothers Edward Jr., John, and Kenny. His only sister, Carol, heartbreakingly passed away just one day after losing her brother Tom.
Affectionately known as Tommy, he was a man defined by loyalty, devotion, and a deep sense of responsibility in every aspect of his life. His greatest joy was his tight‑knit family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 34 years, Gina, his sons Thomas and Nick, his daughter-in-law Lydia, and the lights of his life—his grandchildren Julian, Luke, and Zoey. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who also adored him.
But Tom’s family extended far beyond blood relatives. Everyone welcomed into his life was treated as family. That included his racing family, as motorsports was his second great love and is what ultimately brought him and Gina together.
Tom began as a crewmember on Northeast Modified teams, working with drivers such as John Rosati, Reggie Ruggiero, and others. His passion eventually became his career when he set his sights on NASCAR and moved to North Carolina. Most notably, Tom was brought on by Ray Evernham as a trusted parts manager for the newly formed Dodge Motorsports program in the early 2000s. He later expanded his role, forming and managing the Dodge Viper Racing sales and service company from which he retired.
Tom was also a devoted “Band Dad” at East Lincoln High School, proudly supporting his sons’ love of band every step of the way with his family. He also cherished the many trips to Disney over the years with both his children and grandchildren.
Tom was a man of service. He served his country in the US Army and was an active member of the Knights of Columbus where he served as Deputy Grand Knight and achieved the rank of 4th Degree Knight.
His love of sports ran deep. Friends and family knew how to steer clear when the New England Patriots were playing, especially through the many years his beloved team made it to the Super Bowl. He was also an avid Boston Red Sox and Celtics fan.
A man of strong faith, Tom was a devoted Catholic and a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 9:30AM to 10:45am at Holy Spirit Catholic Church 537 North Highway 16 (Business) Denver, NC 28037. A Mass of Resurrection will follow beginning at 11:00AM.
Reunited with so many loved ones lost along the way, Tom has now crossed the finish line and will forever remain a winner in the hearts of all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Knights of Columbus Council #10389 L.A.M.B. c/o Holy Spirit Catholic Church 537 NC-16 Denver, NC 28037.
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