RICHARDS, Thomas

RICHARDS, Thomas (Brother Francis, C.Ss.R.) - “Brother Francis“ died on Friday, February 1, 2013 at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto at the age of 95. He was born March 23, 1917 in Liverpool, England. In 1947, Francis emigrated to Ennismore ON where he worked for a couple of years in a farming community. It was there that he met and joined the Redemptorists, making his profession of vows on February 2, 1951. In his 62 years as a Redemptorist, Francis served in several locations including: Holy Redeemer Parish, Charlottetown PE; St. Patrick's Parish, London ON; St. Peter's Parish, Saint John NB, St. Alphonsus Parish and Holy Redeemer College, Windsor ON; Holy Redeemer Parish, Sudbury ON, and St. Patrick's Parish, Toronto ON. In his final year, he resided at Lasalle Manor, Scarborough ON, where he received excellent care. Francis was a man of prayer, known for his friendly manner, his ready wit, and repartee. Francis was predeceased by his brothers, Richard, John, and Gerard; his sister, Mary (Sister Lois Richards, IBVM); and niece, Elaine. He is sadly missed by nieces and nephews: Pauline, Mark, Joseph, Carrie, David, Brian, and Mary- Anne, as well as several great nieces and nephews, and many other relatives and friends. Visitation will take place at Holy Redeemer Parish, Sudbury ON, on Friday, February 8, 2013 from 7-9pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 9, 2013 at 10:00am at Holy Redeemer Parish, Sudbury. A Memorial Mass will be held in Toronto on Thursday, February 14, 2013, at 7:00pm at St. Patrick's Parish (Dundas St. West at McCaul St.). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Perpetual Help TV Devotions of the Redemptorists. Arrangements entrusted to ROSAR-MORRISON FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL Toronto ON.