Robert “Bobby Carl” Francis, Jr. 83, of Decatur passed away Saturday May 5, 2018 at his residence. Mr. Francis was born in rural Morgan County, Alabama to Ella Vinsant and Robert Carlton “Carl” Francis. He was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Decatur. He graduated and received his Master’s in Civil Engineering Degree from Auburn University. He retired from Marshall Space Flight Center after 40 years of service. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife of 56 years the love of his life Dixie Autry Francis. He is survived by son, Robert Autry Francis, daughter Faith Francis Ashwander (Walton), daughter Karen Melissa Francis, and grandsons Walton Ashwander, Jr. and Reese Ashwander. Visitation will be Monday May 7, 2018 from 1:00pm until 3:00pm at Hartselle Heritage Funeral Home followed by a service celebrating his life will be at 3:00pm with Bobby Ray Halbrooks, John Walker and Ferrell Vest officiating. A private family burial will take place at a later date at Mt. Tabor Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial donations be made to your favorite charity. Hartselle Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family.
