Ronald Nathan Francis

Ronald Nathan Francis, a beloved resident of Shreveport, Louisiana, departed this life on Monday, December 18th, 2023, after battling complications from a heart attack. Born on Friday, April 13, 1945, in Portsmouth, Ohio, Ron was 78 years old.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Ron is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; children, Roni, Jamey, and Troy, along with his wife, Trish; cherished grandchildren, Nathan, Ryan, Colin, Kendall and her husband Skylar, Kaylee and her husband Kyle, and Dalton; and great-grandchildren, Luke, Caroline, Callum, and Logan. He leaves behind a close-knit circle of friends including his best friends, Wayne and Joan Richard, his Cove crew, and his honorary pallbearers: Wayne Richard, Jason Bullock, Jason Speight, Thomas Speight, Sam Muse, and Anthony Taylor.

Ron's life unfolded with a rich tapestry, highlighted by his service as a paratrooper in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. However, the majority of his narrative took shape post-1980s in the South. After relocating to the region, Ron joined Jackson Truck & Trailer, where he served as Operations Manager in Jackson, Mississippi; New Orleans, Louisiana; and eventually in Shreveport.

Settling in Shreveport, Ron established enduring roots, cultivating a family and life that brought him immense pride. In 1982, he took the reins as owner of Jackson Truck & Trailer, overseeing the business for an impressive 40 years until his retirement in 2022.

Renowned for his unwavering reliability, Ron was a steadfast presence for his family, always ready to drop everything for a meaningful conversation—preferably by a firepit with a Crown Royal and Coke in hand. He was a man of few words - so when he had something to say it was raw and meaningful - holding nothing back.

Beyond his familial roles, Ron was a man of diverse interests, finding joy in travel, golf, fishing, small projects, and ambitious house renovations. A Louisiana resident for many years, he embraced the spirit of the region, partaking in Mardi Gras celebrations, taking in jazz music, and relaxing on a boat.

A memorial service to honor Ron's remarkable life will be held at 1:00 Tuesday, December 26, 2023, at Boone Funeral Home, located at 2156 Airline Dr, Bossier City, LA 71111. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Providence House in Shreveport, Louisiana.