Kenneth 'Six' Francis, former publisher of The Nassau Guardian, died quietly in hospital around 3:22 a.m. yesterday, his family said.
He was 82.
Francis was instrumental in shaping the pages of the print business much of his life as he brought on board the new generation of talent in the media business, the family noted.
It was during Francis' era when The Nassau Guardian was transformed into a fully digital publishing facility.
Francis was born in Nassau on May 15, 1930 at his parents' home on Fort Fincastle.
As a youngster, he was an avid sportsman and an aspiring musician in the St. Francis band.
Francis once said he was not a Catholic but was invited in by the organizers because of his talent. His musical instrument of choice was the clarinet.
Francis met his wife, Stephanie Marie Francis (nee Marshall), as they both played in the band.
Although he played many sports, his sport of choice was cricket.
On many occasions during his early adult years, he had the privilege of representing The Bahamas throughout the West Indies on The Bahamas National Cricket Team.
'Six', as he was affectionately known, had his name carved in the pages of Bahamian sports history for his dedication and commitment to breaking down the color barrier for golf in The Bahamas.
He was a former president of The Bahamas Golf Federation.
During his professional career, Francis often spoke to students impressing upon them the benefits of staying in school and completing their education.
His proudest accomplishment was being awarded the Queen's Honour of the Commander of the British Empire (CBE), an award which he said represents the greatest honor for community service.
"He has left his indelible print on the sands of time here in The Bahamas and across the region," his family said.
"Today he leaves us to be forevermore with the blessed, and take up his place in the court of the saints."
Francis is survived by his wife Stephanie and children Joyann, Patricia, Stephen, Debra and Kenrah, along with a host of relatives and friends.

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