PICTOU LANDING FIRST NATION – Raymond John Francis, 76, of Pictou Landing First Nation, died Monday, January 21, 2008, in the Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow. Born in Pictou Landing, he was a son of the late Roderick ”Lowlly” and Helen (Prosper) Francis. Raymond was a resident of Pictou Landing all of his life where he was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church, as well as a member of the church council. Raymond was a respected businessman who owned and operated R.J. Francis and Sons Foundations for over 40 years. He served as chief for 14 years between 1967-1983 and served as Grand Council Keptin since 1991. He worked for many years as a native alcohol and drug counselor. Raymond was instrumental in bringing the Boat Harbour negotiations to Pictou Landing and without his persistence, the whole boat harbour issue would still be in limbo. Raymond was very involved in preparing St. Ann’s yearly mission. He loved to sing and was a gifted musician. He enjoyed spending time at his cottage on Indian Island where he spent Thanksgiving with his family and close friends Surviving are sons, Barry (Sheila), Harvey and Hugh, all of Pictou Landing; a daughter, Louise (Martin Jr.) Sapier, Pictou Landing; step-daughter, Frances Montieth, Halifax; a sister, Martha (Frank Sr.) Denny, Pictou Landing; grandchildren: Andrew, Natalie, Tim, Thomas, Patrick, Christian, Garret, John, Jordan, Dakota and Savanna, step-grandchildren, Garnet, Courtney and Jade; two great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Raymond was predeceased by his wife, the former Margaret Rose Nicholas; brothers: Lawrence, Louis and Dennis. His remains will rest in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church, Pictou Landing First Nation from 7 to 9 p.m. today and 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday from where a Mass of Christian burial will be held 11 a.m. Saturday with Father Colin MacKinnon officiating. Burial will be in the parish cemetery. Family flowers only. Donations in memory of Raymond may be made to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Memorial Fund or to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are under the direction of the H.W. Angus Funeral Home, New Glasgow.