Arnold Francis, QC, Dies At 88
Arnold Francis, QC, JP, OBE, a founding father of the Progressive Labour Party as well as one of Bermuda’s legal trailblazers died today [Jan 25]. He was 88.
Mr. Francis passed away at his Pembroke home. He is survived by his wife Ann Francis, one son and four daughters.
Born May 17, 1922 Mr Francis’ life as a teacher, athlete, barrister, pioneer politician, leader was a well known champion for justice, social and economic equality and Independence.
His legal career stretched much of the second half of the 20th century and he was considered a pioneer in both the legal profession and Bermudian politics.
He was the first Parliamentary leader of the Bermuda Progressive Labour Party leading it in its earliest formative years, as a Member of Colonial Parliament in Pembroke.
During the Theatre Boycott in 1959 — which ended officially sanctioned segregation in public places in Bermuda — Mr. Francis was the Parliamentary spokesman for the organisers in the Progressive Group.
As Bermuda’s first Queen Counsel, this distinction was an inspiration to many young Bermudians entering the legal profession.
A founding partner of law firm Richards Francis and Francis, the institution broke many boundaries and fostered the careers of many well known Bermuda lawyers.
Mr. Francis, a past president of both the Bermuda Bar Association and the Bermuda Commercial Bank, continued to practice up until recently and also maintained a keen interest in legal affairs as well as local and international politics.
Funeral plans will be announced later.
We have lost a true Bermudian scholar whose life should inspire all. I never felt he received the accolades he deserved as it appeared he was pushed into a corner or under a carpet.
Sad
Sad
Sad
My condolences to his family.
Agreed Mr. Butler. A great lost.
I hope that the “Heroes Day” committee will start recognizing that we can also celebrate those heroes that are still with us. Instead of recognizing the posthumously.
I echo the previous comments. I knew him and yes to an extent he was a gentle giant who did much for all.
His family is blessed with deeds.
Sincerest condolences to Mrs. Francis, Nadine, Kelly, Donnie and Libby.
His legacy lives on Mr. Butler. I remember the first time I met him over at his law offices. He was a living legend, using his intellect, passion, and clever political acumen to blaze trials that we (other young black lawyers)continue to walk today. My only regret is that I could not tap into his brain and extract all that knowledge and experience. Rest well Senior Counsel…..rest well…..
It’s a shame that we’re not schooled more on the living legends in our midst. Heritage Month should be used to highlight the accomplishments of those giants in our community who were pioneers of their time and recognizing them as part of Bermuda’s history.
Other countries do so much to commemorate their heros, but it seems that in Bermuda we are content to only recognize once they have passed on. A crying shame that the National Heros Committee could exclude the likes of Dale Butler, Ms Florence Maxwell and Mr Ira Phillip who are themselves national treasures as they possess such a wealth of information on Bermuda and it’s history.
Condelences to the Francis family but may you take comfort in knowing that your husband, father, brother, grandfather has left an indelible mark both personally and professionally that death cannot erase.
SADE DAY FOR BERMUDA HE WAS A GREAT MAN TO ALL THE FAMILY GOD BLESS YOU CHARLES SPANSWICK IN BARBADOS!!!
Donny….I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Please know that your mom, sisters and you are in our thought and prayer.
from all of us here in Connecticut.