Joseph T. France, 56, of Sandston, VA, departed this life on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center, Fredericksburg, VA. He was born November 27, 1967, in Martinsville, VA to Jacqueline Walton, and the late John France.
Joseph was an avid golfer and was a member of The Club at Viniterra. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering from West Virginia Tech, and he was the owner of France Environmental for twenty-five years.
Those left to cherish his memory include his mother, Jacqueline Walton of Martinsville, VA; one brother, Timothy France (Kris) of Chesapeake, VA; one sister, Rosalind France of Martinsville, VA; his partner, Mary Milne of Sandston, VA; three nephews, Jason France of Chesapeake, VA, Brian France (Veronica) of Knoxville, TN, and Erik Lawrence of Martinsville, VA; one uncle, Ricky Warren Wade of Martinsville, VA; one aunt, Mary E. McCullum of Martinsville, VA; and a host of other relatives, and friends.
A visitation service will be held on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12 noon at the C.R.V. Memorial Chapel at Hairston Funeral Home, 301 Fayette St., Martinsville, VA with Bishop Dr. J.R. Cohens, Eulogist. Interment will be held at Carver Memorial Gardens,869 Parkway Dr., Martinsville, VA at a later date.
A public viewing will be held on Monday, June 17, 2024, at Hairston Funeral Home between the hours of 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. The family will be receiving friends during this time. To view live streaming of the funeral service, go to Hairston Funeral Home live via Facebook.
Courteous, efficient, and dependable services provided by Hairston Funeral Home.
Boychik’s Deli sent Traditional Floor Basket for Joseph T. France - June 17, 2024
Those we love deeply become a part of us forever. Sending our thoughts and prayers from the entire Boychik's family.
Barry Browder sent Beautiful Dreams for Joseph T. France - June 17, 2024
With love from your friends at AmeriSci
Ocean Devotion was sent for Joseph T. France - June 14, 2024
Red and White Handled Basket was sent for Joseph T. France - June 14, 2024
The Peace Lily was sent for Joseph T. France - June 14, 2024
John P Quinn planted 5 trees in memory of Joseph T. France . - June 21, 2024
Kevin Criscitiello planted 5 trees in memory of Joseph T. France . - June 18, 2024
Robin Buskey planted 11 trees in memory of Joseph T. France . - June 15, 2024
Micheal Allshouse planted 13 trees in memory of Joseph T. France . - June 13, 2024
I'm devastated to find out you passed. I've known "France" for over 30 years, we used to play 3 on 3 basketball in Richmond with Keith(RIP) from PSI. Joe was a great friend, very genuine and we were both big UNC fans and enjoyed watching them live when they played in DC. I hadn't talked to him since early 2024 and he was in great spirits as usual! I sent Holiday and New Year text the past week and just found out of his passing. Rest in Peace my friend - Bill Hampton
My name is Mark Sizemore from Fort Mill,SC.. i was his roommate.. I didn't sign my name to my memory.
I was shocked to find the news out. Joe was my college roommate for years and we spent many hours and adventures during that time. Joe was in my wedding and we drifted apart after life getting in the way. I used to come and stay with him and play in 3 on 3 tournaments in Richmond. We texted and called just a few times a year and we were always planning on getting together soon. I loved Joe and only wished I could have talked to him again. So many thoughts and memories flash thru my head with Joe. I want to tell his family that he was an amazing guy and was loved by all. He was one of the best athletes I ever played with. I would always tell our coaches, he was the best running back we had and he needed to have the ball way more. We spent a lot of hours playing Tennis in our off time. He would always beat me! Guy could do anything. He sent me pictures of his vacations the past few years and the good times he was having with little health updates. I will miss my friend very much. To his family, I'm so sorry because I know what a loss it is. I love you Joe "bookie" France.
Joe you will be missed my friend. I always enjoyed our time together, I am sad that you are no longer here. My prayers go out to your family, it was a beautiful service today. Kevin Criscitiello "Dr. C"
It's not the same without you. We love and miss you so much Papa Joe! -Love Hunter Allistair & Maverick
Joseph you were a great friend. You always had a smile and a kind word. We joked one another every time we spoke. We will miss you. Your friend, Duke
Our prayers and condolences are with the France family....Rogers and Peggy Wade
Joe BOOKIE France or HEAD 😪 what we regularly called each other EVERY WEEK for 30 yrs as he came into my Barbershop (T's Barber-Salon ). As FAITHFUL of a customer as he was, he was even more LOYAL as a friend .JOE was the most HUMBLEST person I will EVER meet in my lifetime. I picked the brightest candle ✨️ because that's how Joe's personality & spirit was ALWAYS even when I KNEW he wasn't having a good day..Thanks 4 all the advice, private conversations & jus for being the GREAT GENUINE person you always was. So LATER my Friend, my Brother, my Dude..Until we meet HEAD.😇...Tim "HOP" Hobson
Rest In Peace Joseph "Bookie" France......G.W.Carver High School class of 1986
One of the absolute best people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing in my life. Your smile, your laugh, your humor and your kindness will never be forgotten by me or anyone that knew you. Truly a one of a kind person that I was privileged to call a friend. I would have never told you this in person because you would have told me to "Shut the hell up JW". I Love You Brother! - John Weatherford
Rest in peace my friend. You will be missed but forever in our thoughts. Alex
RIP my friend.Prayers for the family. Allen Pickurel
I knew Joe from the time he came to PSI and we kept up over the years. We spoke not long ago and he threatened to whip me again on the pool table. We were together through the Bernie Mack years, constantly using his words to joke with each other. He and the office crew from PSI made the trip across the state to surprise me for my 50th birthday. Great guy, wonderful friend, and a joy to be around. I will truly miss him. Jerry Cruise 3
Happy Father's Day. Been a tough pill for me to swallow especially today. Thank you for raising me and making me the man I am today. I appreciate everything you have ever done for me. I will be forever grateful. -Jordan Kemal
We're so sorry for your loss. We pray that God comforts and sends His peace. Our deepest sympathy, The Shavers Girls
Frances, I am planting these 11 trees in honor of sweet November—as well as for your love of the outdoors and the Afton mountains we did not get to see this weekend. No more battles, stress, worries, or fear, Joseph. No more wondering what your grandmother would think as you look in the mirror some days. I pray that your spirit is resting in absolute peace. You will be missed immensely. "No question." ~ Robin Charmaine
I feel so lucky to have met Joe a few months ago. After talking with him for a few minutes, instantly liked him. He came in my detail shop as a customer but quickly became much more. After multiple interactions and talks on the phone, really connected with him. We'd talk about business, family, friends, life. Only knowing someone such a short time always looked forward to speaking with him and seeing him. He spoke about his step kids regularly and how proud of them he was, and how much potential they had. He spoke of them as if they were his own. In the little time I knew him, I was lucky to retain alot of lifelong lessons that I'll continue to carry with me. Even on a bad day or with bad news, he always continued with the same energy. I'm thankful to have met him.
Sorry for Your Loss, Sending Condolences to the Family. Praying that God's Peace will Surround, Strengthen and Comfort You in Your in Your Season of Grief. The Life Society, Hazel W. Spencer, President.
<< Blue candle for UNC. Gonna miss getting my butt beat golfing with him 🥵. I've been wearing the hat he bought me at Kilmarlic Golf Club in his memory. He will be missed dearly, just a great human that set a great example. Thanks for the memories, until we meet again homie. — David Hagen
Joey, you will always be known as my dad/mentor/the one who raised me. Thank you for all the amazing memories and new experiences. I'm so sorry to hear about this, about everything. and it pains me deep inside that this is the only way to show or say thank you; that you are appreciated one more time. RIP JTF you will always remembered. -Kirsten
To the family of this wonderful soul. I worked with Joe for numerous years even before he branched out on his own to start France Environmental. I would call on Joe for all of the needs professionally. However, our relationship goes well beyond the professional avenues. We had great personal conversations and enjoyed the time whenever we were in each others company. Joe was very personal and kind. He had the best spirit when life through him a curve and kept the best of himself presented for all in his view. He was genuine and just a straight up guy. Anyone who met him would know instantly that he was a respectful and decent man. I can't imagine the hurt the family feels during this troubling period, but I am sure all the great memories of your loved one will forever stand out in your thoughts and discussions of him. God be with each one of you and know that he will never leave you in this time of need. Dexter Goode, City of Richmond
My condolences and prayers for the family
Thoughts and prayers. I've known Joe through the industry for a very long time. I recently went through a class at his facility, and he took the time to seek me out and say hello. Dressed head to toe in Carolina blue, I may add! Good man. RIP my friend. Mike Jackson
Joe was a kind man to me we laugh tighter when we played golf at the ISI tournament when we were on the same team he will be missed I will keep the family in prayer during this sad time Edward McComber
I am so saddened to hear of Joe's passing. So many wonderful memories with him. His smile was the best and his laugh was contagious. He is definitely a guy you can never forget. Sending hugs and prayers to his family. ❤️
Bookie you will be missed Sir!!! Yolanda Wright Millner AKA Pooh
Rip Joe " Bookie France my G. W Carver High Classmate C/O 86 and teammate/ brother on our Football team. One of the greatest Athletes to come through Carver High. Take your rest Bro 🙏🏾
Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Leth & Marian Hairston
Flathead, OMG I'll miss you. You were a good man, who helped out many in need. There's a hole in this life without you. We weren't hang out b7ddies but I've always been impressed, and as much as i teased you about the tar heels...go heels!! From one flathead to another God Blees You.
I have known Joe for over 20 years. We worked together and we rode together. We had so many great conversations where we shared advice. Joe was a great guy! We are praying for his family, friends and his France Environmental family. James and Sandy Morris
Joe was One of One! He will be missed by all that knew him.
Bubba Moore
I met Joe in 2012 when I knew nothing about anything his company did and he took a chance on me. That blossomed into a great friendship and he became one of my most cherished friends and brother. We rode together often this year! My heart is so broken to lose such a gem. There are very few stand up individuals like Joe France! It was an honor to be his friend, his brother and his employee!
You will be missed, Uncle Joe. Rest in Paradise
Bookie is what our family known him as. Bookie was part of our family. He went to high school with my brother and would come to our house quite often. My family considered him one of us. Bookie and my brother would come to the house after games and cook and have the best time. Our home was his home! Bookie was always caring and very kind. We loved him very much. Although we haven't seen him in many years, he never left our hearts or our minds. We will always hold his memory close in our hearts and are praying for his family. Patsy Lawson Dillard
My condolences to close friends and family! You will be missed.
Ron James
I am so sad to hear of Joe's tragic passing. I worked with Joe at PSI and stayed in touch for many years. He nicknamed me Doogie. Joe was such a great guy, fun to be around, and always a man of his word. He will be missed. May God bring comfort to your family. Adam Sitterding
Joe was a generous friend and was very thoughtful. He will be missed by me so very much. I never will forget the day I met Joe. I walked up to him, eye, to eye and he commented on my height. He will be missed by me. Rest in peace my friend. Joyce Miller
I cannot express in words my love for Joe. I don't think I'll ever get over the loss of such a kind, generous, loving friend. While I am tremendously sad at your passing, I am glad that I got to spend the day with you on Sunday at the ball game. I'm sorry I couldn't do anything to change the outcome. Joe was not just a friend, he was a brother. Truly. This world is a lonelier place without you. Rest in peace my brother.
Bookie is all I have ever called him. He was a gentle soul and would help anyone. He will be missed by many. Please pray for the family, especially his Uncle Ricky Wade. May God continue to wrap his loving arms around you all.
My condolences and prayers for the family Betty Gravely Burwell
One of my fondest memories is of Joe and his passion for Kool-Aid. He was such a fun, happy easy-go-lucky, hard-working guy. Thank you for being such a wonderful role model to your nephews, Brian and Jason France. They love their Uncle Joe. I pray everyone can cherish fond memories of Joe during this very sad time. ~Laura France
Sorry for your loss will be miss I'm keep family in prayer
With deepest sympathy to the family.
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