Dr. Juan Francisco Rios age 90 of Galax, Virginia passed away Sunday, November 26, 2023 in the Waddell Nursing and Rehab Center.

Dr. Rios was born on February 3, 1933 in Durango, Mexico to Ramon and Margarita Hernandez Rios. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife and the mother of his sons Peggy Lincoln Rios.

Dr. Rios graduated from the University of Mexico and was the Chief of Surgery for Twin County Community Hospital for many years, as well as being the Medical Examiner for both Grayson and Carroll Counties. He was a founding member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Woodlawn, Virginia, and a member of both the Lions Club and Galax Theater Guild. His great loves were family, traveling abroad, music, reading and working in his yard--his story telling was legendary throughout the area.

He is survived by his wife Beverly Higgins Rios of Galax, Virginia; sons and daughters-in-law Victor R. and Suzanne Rios of Raleigh, North Carolina; David A. and Patricia Rios of Way Cross, Georgia; John S. Rios of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; daughter and son-in-law Whitney L.  and Richard Munroe of Davidson, North Carolina; several grandchildren; several great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Saturday at 2:00 PM in the First Baptist Church with Dr. Kevin Rosenfeld officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Felts Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday from 1:00 PM until time for the service at the First Baptist Church.