It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sheldon Joseph Francis (Mooney) on Monday, November 4, 2024 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Sheldon was a beloved member of our community, known for his humour, generosity, and devotion to family.
Sheldon was a passionate entrepreneur whose impact was felt across our community. He began his journey in business with Mac Mooney’s Take Out/Food Truck in Qampsipuk. He later opened Mac Mooney’s Sports Grill/Smoke Shop, where he created a welcoming space for all. His entrepreneurial spirit continued with the establishment of Mac Mooney’s Gym, which became a central spot for many local Youth interested in mixed Martial Arts. He took the youth to World Grapplers Quest hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada in 2011 and 2012 where his students came home with Silver and Gold medals in back to back years. In 2021, he fulfilled a dream by opening Wilder’s Diner, where he offered home-cooked meals made with love for friends, family, and community. Sheldon was a well-known caterer in Unama’ki. He fed people from all over at our community Pow Wow and Christmas Social hosted by Eskasoni Mental Health.
Sheldon produced a fiddling CD called “The Lumberjack Reel” for his father Mooney in 2005, which got a nominee at the East Coast Music Awards. Sheldon also volunteered and coached hockey in his spare time and won Coach of the year at the Wally Bernard Tournaments.
Sheldon’s vibrant spirit was felt by everyone who knew him. Known for his infectious laughter and ability to bring joy to any situation, Sheldon was a man who would do anything for a good laugh. Sheldon would always put others needs before his own, and if there was someone in need he would ensure that person was cared for. His greatest joy was his family, and he was especially proud of his grandchildren, Lexton Wilder Francis and Ksalsuti Pauline Francis, who held a special place in his heart. Sheldon loved to go fishing, watching his children play hockey, lacrosse and traveling with his family to Disney.
Sheldon is survived by his loving wife, Jane Francis; his daughter Riviera (Robert) Casey; his sons Gerard (Karlee) Francis, Sheldon (Didies) Francis, Kolton Francis, and Kolby Francis. Siblings - Heather (Gub) Marshall, Lydia (Chuck) Gould, Myrna (Larry) Francis, Corrine (Harvey) Francis, Ander Francis, and Andrew “Joll“ (Erin) Francis. Sheldon is survived by his grandchildren Lexton and Ksalsuti, numerous nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, and godchildren. He also leaves behind his father and mother-in-law Valerian (Smokey) and Cecelia Marshall; sister-in-laws Charmony, Valerie, Patricia, Wendy (Shaun), Arlene; brother-in-laws Floyd (Mary), Wilbert (Jean Carla), Sheldon (Lisa) and Christian (Carmen). He leaves behind his godmother Yvonne Denny. He will be deeply missed by his entire family and the many friends who loved him dearly.
He is predeceased by his cherished daughter, Justine Andrea Anne Paul, as well as his parents, Andrew and Pauline Francis, his sister, Colleen Francis and godfather Oliver (Sap) Denny.
The wake will begin on Thursday, November 14, at 7:00 p.m. and the funeral will be held on Saturday, November 16 at 10:00 a.m. Sheldon will forever be remembered for his laughter, kindness, and dedication to his family and community. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him.
Memories and condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.twcurry.com.
