Wilton Francis (Nort) Townsend, age 99, of Wallace, NC, peacefully passed on from his earthly life on July 24, 2024.  Born on May 14, 1925, he was the son of the late D. B. and Mary Hester Townsend.  Also preceding him in death was his wife Ellis Henry Williams Townsend and his brother Thomas C. Townsend.  Left to cherish his memory are his daughters - Kaye Jackson (Andy) of Cary, NC, and Carol McGinnis (Steve) of Rocky Point, NC; four grandchildren – Jon Jackson, Nick Jackson, Kelly Hunter (Todd), and Heath Carter (Jessica); two great-grandsons – Jackson Hunter and Hudson Carter.

Born in Wagram, NC, Scotland County, Francis moved with his family to Wallace in 1927.  In 1942 after graduating Wallace High School, he attended Mars Hill College until joining the U.S. Marine Corp in 1943. After his honorable discharge on July 2, 1946, Francis returned to Mars Hill College and then attended UNC-Chapel Hill until returning home to work in the family business, Townsend Auto Parts. In 1950, Francis married Ellis Henry Williams, and they celebrated 67 years together.

Francis was well known for his volunteer work in the Boy Scouts of America (the most memorable times participating in the annual camporees) and received the prestigious Silver Beaver Award for his dedicated service.  As a faithful member of Wallace Methodist Church, he served as finance treasurer for many years and had a history of public service on various community boards and organizations - Thelma Dingus Bryant Library Board, Wallace ABC Board, and BB&T Board. He was a distinct member of the Wallace Masonic Lodge No. 279 for 75 years.  In his younger years, growing roses became his hobby as many people would stop by his yard to admire his colorful rose garden. He was faithful to his family business where he worked serving the community until the age of 92.  After an extensive illness and recovery in 2017, Francis returned to his business roots at "the store" and enjoyed sitting in his rocking chair and greeting customers. "Nort" as many people called him was devoted to family, business, church, community, and enjoyed trout fishing, yard work, and simply relaxing in his recliner at home.  He possessed such a positive attitude and outlook on life and overcame later health challenges with inspirational strength and determination.

Francis was grateful for friends at The Gardens of Rose Hill and for the admirable care he received from the staff. The personal care from staff at Pender Memorial Hospital and Lower Cape Fear Lifecare was compassionate and heartfelt.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at Wallace Methodist Church in Wallace, NC at 2:00 p.m. followed by visitation in the church fellowship hall.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Wallace Methodist Church, 301 S College St, Wallace NC 28466 or Lower Cape Fear Lifecare, 1414 Physicians Dr, Wilmington, NC 28401.