Everett James (Captain Porky) Francis of Edgartown, died Saturday, Jan. 4, surrounded by his family. He was 80.

Porky was a respected electrician on the Island for many years, but was probably best known for his namesake business Capt’ Porky’s Bait and Tackle in Edgartown. The shop was a collaboration of his knowledge and vast experience of Martha’s Vineyard fishing and Carol’s business acumen in running the store. Porky leveraged his expertise in local fishing to supply rods, reels and fishing tackle to those looking for the authentic Martha’s Vineyard fishing experience. He was also a licensed charter boat captain on the Whitewater, and could be found running charters south of the Island throughout the summer months. On the water was where Porky was most at peace with the world around him. As a result, his ashes will be spread at sea near Porky’s Island.

He was the son of late Alfred Jordan Francis and Adelle Curney Francis of Edgartown. His life on the water started at an early age. His father was a fisherman on the Island. As the nephew of Capt. Roy Campbell of Vineyard Haven, Porky spent much of his youth on the dragger Roann or learning the skills to harvest quahaugs and scallops from the Lagoon Pond. Working around the water came naturally to him, as he hailed from a long line of men who made a living from the sea.

His passion for fishing would eventually lead to his involvement in the Martha’s Vineyard Stripped Bass and Blue Fish Derby, initially as a participant, later on the organizing committees and then as a member of the Derby Hall of Fame. This past year he was able to attend the awards ceremony wearing his cap covered with a lifetime of derby pins. Porky was always most comfortable with a fishing rod in his hands when on the water or a filleting knife at the cleaning bench when on the docks.

He is survived by his wife Carol Koser Francis; three children, Lynne Francis-Lunn of Beverly, Everett Francis of Hatchville, and Peter Francis of East Falmouth; a sister, Jean Laramee of East Bridgewater; a brother, Alfred and his wife of Vineyard Haven; and four grandchildren. He was predeceased by two sisters, Barbara Silvia of Vineyard Haven and Mary Nickerson of Chatham.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring.

Donations can be made to the Martha’s Vineyard Stripped Bass and Bluefish Derby Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 2101, Edgartown, MA 02539.