A Community in Mourning: The Loss of Francis Churchill

The University of Vermont (UVM), the wider Vermont community, and all who knew Francis Churchill are deeply mourning his loss. Francis, a highly respected leader in environmental health and safety, passed away peacefully this week at the age of 57, surrounded by his loving family. His death has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of his family, colleagues, and the countless lives he touched through his remarkable career.

Francis was born and raised in Richmond, Vermont, where his roots ran deep, and his connection to his family and hometown shaped who he became. In a statement from his family, it was shared that his passing marked the end of a life filled with purpose, passion, and unwavering commitment to the community. Those who knew him recall the countless hours spent together in his childhood home, now where he raised his own children—a home that became a sanctuary for wisdom, laughter, and genuine care.

His family said it best: “We’ve lost not only a father, a mentor, and a colleague but a man whose kindness and humility defined everything he did.”

A Career of Dedication: Leadership in Environmental Health

Francis’s career was defined by his dedication, commitment to safety, and leadership. After earning his Biology degree from UVM in 1990, he began his career in environmental and laboratory safety, eventually becoming an integral part of UVM’s safety culture. He started at UVM in 1993 as a hazardous waste specialist and later grew into roles that defined his legacy, ultimately serving as Director of Environmental Health and Safety by 2020.

His work was more than a job—it was a calling. Francis approached each day with a deep sense of responsibility to his colleagues and the community. He led UVM’s COVID-19 health and safety measures, ensuring the safety of the entire campus. His tireless work helped UVM earn national recognition for its pandemic response. His colleagues recall his calm authority, his humble leadership, and his ability to bring people together to achieve common goals.

In addition to his leadership, Francis created initiatives that have lasting impacts, such as the Safety Officer Program at UVM, which continues to shape the university’s safety culture today. His legacy is not written in awards, but in the lives of the people he helped and the principles he instilled in his work.

A Legacy of Kindness: A Father, Mentor, and Friend

Though his professional achievements are remarkable, those who knew Francis best remember him for his character and humanity. A devoted father, Francis was deeply proud of his two daughters, always encouraging them to pursue their dreams with compassion and curiosity. His quiet nature and genuine care for others made him not just a mentor at work, but also a cherished friend to all.

Francis’s quiet leadership extended beyond the office. Whether on a hiking trip in the Vermont wilderness or during family gatherings, Francis’s presence was one of calm, strength, and thoughtfulness. He was known for his ability to connect with anyone—from senior faculty to custodial staff—always treating everyone with equal respect and dignity. His ability to listen, his humility, and his natural kindness left an indelible mark on the UVM community and beyond.

Francis’s impact will continue to inspire, not through the accolades he received, but in the way he treated others and the lasting changes he made in environmental safety. He leaves behind a profound legacy of integrity, compassion, and service. Those who had the privilege of knowing him will carry forward his values and his memory for years to come.