M. Edward Francis, 80, of New Castle, formerly of Winter Ave., passed away the evening of Jan. 16, 2012 at Jameson Hospital.Born Nov. 3, 1931 in New Castle, he was the son of Merle L. and Jane Shuler Francis. Ed was married to the former Shirley Smith and she passed away Aug. 29, 1994. He was the owner of Francis Auto Sales and Service, retiring in 2005. Ed was a member of the Eintracht Singing Society, was a Mason, and a member of Lodge #542. He was the treasurer of the Motor Vehicle State Inspection for Lawrence County. Ed was a former member of Second Presbyterian Church.Survivors include three sons and a daughter-in-law, Edward M. Francis of New Castle, Robert F. and Darlene (Lutz) Francis of Winter Park, FL, and William E. Francis of New Castle; seven grandchildren, Kristen Barnes, Stephanie Zane, Jenna Lee Francis, Laken Francis, Matthew Francis, Darrell Francis, and Mason Francis; and two great grandchildren, Madeline Francis and Reagan Zane.He was preceded in death by his parents and wife.Visitation will be Thursday, Jan. 19, 2012, from 10 a.m. to noon at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road.A funeral service will be held Thursday, Jan. 19, 2012, at noon following the visitation. The Rev. John Yergan will officiate. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery.