By Joe Siegel
John David Francis, a longtime Seekonk resident and co-founder of Doorways Food Pantry, passed away on January 10.
According to his obituary, Francis served as Vice Chair of the Town of Seekonk Finance Committee and as a member of the Seekonk Library Board of Directors. His passion for supporting youth was evident through his longtime service as a coach for the Darlington American League and Seekonk Little League, as well as his role on the Board of Directors for the Pawtucket Boys & Girls Club.
In recognition of his lifelong dedication to young people and philanthropy, David received the Boys & Girls Club of America National Service to Youth Award, the Outstanding Partner in Philanthropy Award, and a Service to Youth Citation from the City of Pawtucket.
Francis and a like-minded group of volunteers founded Doorways to help people in need.
Over the past 25 years, Doorways has provided food to more than 800 families, served thousands of individuals, and distributed over 1.9 million pounds of food. In 2025 alone, Doorways supported more than 2,500 shopping visits and served 5,500 individuals—at no cost to the neighbors it serves.”
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to calling hours on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at Manning-Heffern-O’Neill Funeral Home, 220 Cottage Street, Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Funeral services will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Doorways Food Pantry, in honor of David’s lifelong commitment to helping neighbors in need.
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