FRANCIS, Brian Joseph “Joe” – age 71, of Indian Brook/Sipekne’katik, passed away peacefully/surrounded by his loved ones on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. Born in Truro, he was a son of the late Charles “Chappy” Francis and Mary “Agatha” Francis (nee Beadle). 

Known to many as "Uncle Joe" or "Elder Joe", he was a man of many trades. He had dedicated his life to helping others by the means of dedicating 40 years to the Indian Brook Fire Department, and his honored role as indigenous spiritual/traditional guidance elder. Joe also volunteered much of his time to teaching the youth how to gather traditional medicines, bass fish, make Christmas wreaths, moose hunting and teaching the traditions of the Mi’kmaq culture, and various ceremonies. Most of all Joe loved his time and adventures with his children and grandchildren.

Joe is survived by his daughters, Marlene Francis and Nora Simon; Grandson, Andrew (Jenna) and Granddaughter, Chianne Marshall; Great-grandchildren, Tomas, Payton, Paul, Theo and Maria; Siblings, Gloria Googoo, Blanche Francis, Tom Francis (Sherry Paul), Shirley Francis, and Simon Francis; all from Sipekne’katik; many nieces, and nephews; Godchildren, Joanne (G.I.) Googoo, Charles Francis, and Dallas Peter-Paul. 

He was predeceased by wife, Gloria (nee Bernard); son, Brian; daughter, Ashely; brothers, Charles and Stephen; sister, Carol Ann.

There will be a four-day traditional wake, each day representing a direction, beginning at 4PM Friday, August 8, at 25 Dowie Road, Indian Brook/Sipekne’katik. Following the wake there will be a Mi’kmaq Traditional funeral service at 10 AM August 12, at the Arbor in Indian Brook/Sipekne’katik. Just a side note: Even though it is a Mi’kmaq Traditional Service everyone is welcome to celebrate the life of the myth, the man, the legend, Elder Joe, Uncle Joe, Dad, Grandad. Cremation will take place after the service under the guidance of Ettinger’s Funeral Home. 

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Indian Brook/Sipekne’katik Fire Department. 

Tributes, words of comfort and memories of Joe may be shared with the family at www.ettingerfuneralhome.com