NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Francis Guess was a Vietnam Veteran, a civil rights activist, humanitarian, and volunteer.
He spent decades in public service, but his time in Nashville began in public housing where he was raised.
He went on to become a local leader who generations looked up to.
"He had the gift of seeing the good in everybody, raising our awareness towards issues that we otherwise would never have on our radar," said Bishop Joseph Walker.
Guess served on the National Civil Rights Commission and as the commissioner for the Tennessee Departments of Labor and General Services. He served 30 years on the Tennessee Commission of Human Rights and volunteered for countless organizations.
"Through the Danner Foundation he did so much, interacted so much with the nonprofits," Andrea Conte said.
"Francis was a perfect example of the kind of citizen that the founders of this country hoped would step forward," former Governor Phil Bredesen said.
A funeral service was held at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday for Guess in the Davidson Room of the Music City Center.
While there were many tears, there were also a lot of laughs and memories shared by those who knew him best.
"I think today as we all are saddened it’s important to remember who Francis was and that he enjoyed himself," RJ Danner said.
He was described as a man who built bridges rather than burn them. He helped people come together from every economic background and had a major influence on the city Nashville has become known as.
"I really am going to miss him a lot," Conte said.
Guess died at his home at the age of 69. He’s survived by his daughter, Maria.
Guess' funeral service has been set to re-air on NewsChannel 5+ at 2 p.m. Saturday, August 1.
