Francine, the beloved cat who roams the Lowe’s hardware store in Richmond, Virginia, has been located! Though she had been missing for over two weeks, she is now happily reunited with her community. Tiggy, who became a local celebrity because of her charming disposition, had been part of the operation for nine years. Her unexpected absence in September 2025 caused an outpouring of support and concern from employees and customers alike.
In the desperate days after Francine’s disappearance, store associates and local community members—many of whom had seen Francine grow up—kicked off a massive search effort. The new effort caught fire on social media almost immediately. This resulted in the launch of an Instagram account, @WheresFrancine, which quickly gained more than 30,000 followers willing to assist in the search for the missing feline.
Lowe’s employees used advanced tech-powered tactics to find Francine. They deployed thermal drones, established humane traps, and combed through six months of footage recorded by 246 distribution center cameras. Their resolve truly made the difference! Francine was rescued from the back of a delivery truck en route to a distribution center in Garysburg, North Carolina—roughly 85 miles from her original home store.
Yet the community’s commitment to Francine, and determination to find her were as clear as the way community members came together during the search. Despite the uncertainty during the entire ordeal, Mike Sida, new store manager, was resolute.
“I was pretty confident that we would find Francine,” – Mike Sida
For Wayne Schneider, another member of Lowe’s team, the moment they discovered Francine was nothing short of miraculous.
“It was just gonna be a matter of time. It was kinda gonna be on her terms, so we had to just be patient,” – Mike Sida
Dianne Jackson, one of Francine’s many devoted customers, acknowledged Francine’s role in making the store’s atmosphere special.
“We were so elated. I mean, we were just like, it was almost a miracle,” – Wayne Schneider
Having Francine back in the fold has given the Richmond Lowe’s team the opportunity to be whole again. To greet her homecoming, she was dappered in a fashionable, new, mother-like harness. Now this harness, embedded with a tracking smart tag, will protect her from the future.
“When you come here, you look for her, if you’re a regular,” – Dianne Jackson
The local fanbase that came out and filled the hall was the perfect example of the impressive relationship Francine has developed with her fans. From employees to customers, people lined up waiting for her to come back, showing there’s no doubt about the special place pets have in keeping community charm alive.
The local community’s engagement and support showcased the bond that exists between Francine and her admirers. From employees to customers, everyone eagerly awaited her return, highlighting the unique role pets play in fostering community spirit.
