Jeremy Francis was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, originally on the block of 83rd and Hermitage. He attended Foster Park Elementary School and later played basketball at Calumet High School, where he graduated with a full academic scholarship. Jeremy went on to become a supervisor at UPS, where he met the love of his life, his lifelong partner and the mother of his children, his beloved Deonya “DeeDee” Francis.
In 2002, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He proudly served his country, completing a 16-month tour in Iraq. After his military service, Jeremy—ever multifaceted—ventured into many paths of entrepreneurship, leaving his mark in every endeavor.
Born to Floretta Francis (Rodney), Jeremy was a devoted father to Angel, Jakhira, Jeremy, and Marquiana. He was a loving brother to Jerry, Terrell, and his twin, Jerome (Dionne). A family man at heart, he also leaves behind four brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and an army of cousins whom he cherished deeply—always ready when they call.
Jeremy was fiercely loyal, a solid friend to all who knew him. He shared an unbreakable bond with his right-hand man, Johnathan “JohnBoi.” His crooked smile could light up any room, and a single conversation with him left people feeling refreshed and uplifted. Jeremy loved humanity, especially his community, and was one of the most selfless people you could ever meet. He gave back every chance he got, serving as the ultimate hype man and biggest supporter to those around him.
Famous for his encouraging phrases—“That’s dope!” or “That’s tough!”—he had an uncanny ability to see people’s potential and push them toward greatness. Jeremy never turned anyone away; if you needed him, his response was always, “Say less.” He loved to laugh and to make others laugh with him. Above all, he was funny, charming, brilliant, and generous—the kind of man who’d give you the shirt off his back.
As a father, partner, son, brother, and friend, Jeremy stood as a patriarch in the lives of so many. His legacy of love, loyalty, and laughter will live on in all who were blessed to know him.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Jeremy Francis, please visit our floral store.