Francis Sholly Obituary

Francis Sholly

July 4, 1947 - March 31, 2026

Columbia, South Carolina - Francis Xavier Sholly, affectionately known as Frank, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026. Born in Newark, NJ on July 4, 1947, he resided in Columbia, South Carolina at the time of his death. Francis, husband of the late DeAnna Mae Sholly, served his country with honor and distinction as a Fire Control Technician in the U.S. Navy, which included service during the Vietnam War. He served in the U.S. Navy for a total of 30 years. His life was characterized by his deep commitment to his family, his church, and his country.

Francis was a member of the St. John Neuman Catholic Church and a committed Christian. Throughout his life, he had a love for riding motorcycles which provided him with a sense of freedom and adventure. His life was filled with the joy of family gatherings, the companionship of dear friends, and the quiet satisfaction of a life well-lived.

Francis is survived by his sons, Doug Sholly, Pete Sholly (Rita), Edward Ballard-Sholly (Layla); daughter, Christina Stroud (Chris); brother, Christopher Sholly; grandchildren, Heather Proctor (Jonathan), Tyler Stroud, Annabelle Sholly, Madison Sholly, Gene Gainey, Sandi Ott (Hunter), companion, Mary Jane Henderson; and 6 great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Jr. and Genevieve Sholly; brother, Ed Sholly; and a sister, Nora Sholly. Francis' life was marked by the love he had for his family and the service he gave to his country. His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of everyone he interacted with as well as those he touched but never met.

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John Neuman Catholic Church with burial to follow in Memorial Gardens of Columbia. Father Sandy McDonald will officiate. A rosary will be recited Friday at 5:00 p.m. with visitation to follow until 7:00 p.m. at Powers Funeral Home.