Obituary of Shea Williams Francisco

Shea Williams Francisco, 40, passed away Sunday, February 6, 2022. Shea is survived by so many friends and family whom he loved dearly. Being a father to his three sons: Ryder, Grayson, Cashel and bonus daughters: Marhaid and Nola Claire was his greatest joy. Shea is survived by his parents, Gary and Joan Francisco; Brother and sister in-law Sean and Lina Francisco; sister and brother in-law Shanna and Robert King; nieces Sienna, Elena, and Isla King;  Ryder and Grayson’s mother, Melissa Blankenship; Cashel, Nola and Marhaid’s mother and Shea’s love, Jennifer Preston; aunt and uncle June and Bob Anderson; and so many loved cousins, second mom’s, close friends, Lew’s & NA family and mentors.  

Shea loved life and made every experience an adventure. He spent so much of his time in the mountains and rivers of Virginia with his family and knew every waterfall and view on and off the AT within a day’s drive. Shea loved his family—born and chosen. He often said, “there is no greater love than the one that allows us to share our name.” Shea never met a stranger. He welcomed everyone without judgement into his circle. He was quick to make friends and always willing to help, regardless of the need. Shea’s light shined brightly in his smile and eyes. His love of music, nature, and adventure were avenues to connect and share experiences with his friends, children and family. Shea was sentimental and kept the kind words and gestures paid to him close to his heart. He was a story-teller, a hiker, a musician and a hugger. His love of sports grew as a coach of his son’s basketball team. Shea, like his dad, was an avid Hokie and like his sons a Lakers and Packers enthusiast. Shea counted himself lucky to have kept friends from childhood, and to have welcomed so many people to be part of his family. If he said “I love you” nothing was truer.  

“Fare you well, fare you well, I love you more than words can tell, listen to the river sing sweet songs to rock my soul.” 

Services will be held Friday, February 18, 2022 at 3 pm at Simpson Funeral Home Peters Creek Road Chapel. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to service time. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home (540)366-0707. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to provide for Shea's sons' futures by following the link below: 

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-sheas-sons?member=17358837&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer