[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 50 (Tuesday, March 24, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E753]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING COMMISSIONER MIKE FRANCIS OF SUMTER COUNTY, FLORIDA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GINNY BROWN-WAITE

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 24, 2009

  Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
honor a man who dedicated many years and his final days to serving his 
community. Sumter County Commissioner Mike Francis passed away after a 
months long struggle with an illness. At a young 70, Mr. Francis was 
taken too soon.
  Originally from Chicago, Mr. Francis first served as a Lady Lake 
Commissioner before being elected Sumter County Commissioner in 2004. A 
principled and passionate leader, he served as Chairman of the County 
Board in 2006 and 2007.
  Mr. Francis was one of the first from The Villages to serve on the 
board. He was a tireless and vocal advocate for issues related to the 
Villages. He fought to reduce taxes for the community and promoted 
increased fiscal accountability county wide.
  A well-loved family man, Mr. Francis leaves behind his wife Pat. The 
Francises have five grown childred, including one foster child, and 
seven grandchildren.
  Madam Speaker, it is public servants like Mr. Francis that keep our 
communities and counties running strong at home. His dedication and 
willingness to serve are admired and stand as a model to others. We 
thank him for his service. He will be missed.

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