James B. "Jimmie" Francis, 81, of 1 Jackson Street, Clifton Forge, died Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at Alleghany Regional Hospital in Low Moor.

Born June 14, 1928 in Alleghany County, he was a son of the late James A. Francis and Dora Haynes Francis.

He was a self-employed accountant and served in U.S. Marine Corps during World War II and the Korean War.

He was also a member of the Central United Methodist Church, President of Mountaineer Gun Club, and past member of Clifton Forge Kiwanis Club. Jimmie was also a life member of the BPOE #1065 in Clifton Forge and The Clifton Forge Volunteer Rescue Squad.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one half brother and two half-sisters.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Margaret Krimm Francis; a son, James Michael Francis of Clifton Forge; four sisters, Sara Mason and her husband, Gene of Iron Gate, Seatta Wilhelm and husband, Eddie of Clifton Forge, Mary Sue Francis of Clifton Forge and Dora Martin of Gardner, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews and his beloved companion, Rooter.

A graveside funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 1 at 2:00 p.m. in the Mausoleum at Alleghany Memorial Park, Low Moor with the Reverend Virgil Woody officiating. Honorary pallbearers will be Bob Chenault, Bill Colvin, Jack Kimberlin, Jack Easter, Ray Norvell, Doodie Morris, Jim Broughman and Bob Rodgers. The family will receive friends from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Friday evening at Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge.

The Nicely Funeral Home in Clifton Forge is handling the arrangements.