Francis J. McGee - Obituary

rancis J. McGee was born on December 8, 1930, to Fannie N. Harper and Edgar B. McGee in Alexandria, Virginia. He attended Parker Gray High School and received his degree from North Carolina Central University. While at NCCU, Francis was inducted into the army and served three years in Germany. He returned to the States and completed his education at North Carolina Central University. He met and married Mary M. Hamner of Lynchburg, Virginia and settled in Washington, D.C. He lived in Washington, D.C. until his death always staying close to his beloved city of Alexandria, Virginia. Francis worked in Social Services and as an Interstate Compact Officer, law and enforcement both in the District Government and private sector. He retired in 1999, after the death of his wife Mary. Francis was the ultimate athlete. He played basketball, football and baseball while attending Parker Gray. He was part of the “Dream Team,” All Star basketball and football players in the D.C. Metro area. He went on to earn a football scholarship to NCCU. While in the U.S. Army he played baseball. Francis continued to play football with local teams in the D.C. area and enjoyed bowling in leagues. Later in life he became an avid swimmer. He swam twice a week at the Aquatic Center in Capital Hill, D.C. until he could no longer, at the age 87. Francis also enjoyed watching and attending college basketball and football games. During his lifetime he attended some of the most notable college sports events for African Americans; like in 1966 when Texas Western College won the NCAA men’s college basketball final at College Park. He was also in attendance when Marvin Webster the “Human Eraser” led Morgan State to the NCAA Division II National Championship. One of Francis’ favorite past times in his mature years was following the careers of his grandsons, Eddie and Chris. He thoroughly enjoyed watching his grandson Eddie play football at the University of Illinois in Champaign, and made sure to watch every single game. He would even call the local reporters in Champaign to correct them if he felt they got the story wrong. Francis also took great pride in his grandson, Christopher, whose talents excelled both on the football field and creatively through visual and performing arts. Francis was a long standing member of Alexandria Elks Lodge #48. His membership in the Elks Lodge gave him opportunities to socialize and cultivate lifelong friendships while improving the Alexandria community. One of the most important things in life to Francis was his family. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary McGee and Brother Edgar B. McGee. He will be deeply missed by his Sister Lucretia Mundy, all his children, grandchildren, extended family, and everyone whom he called friend.