Virginia Lowe’s Store Cat Returns Home After Accidental Journey to North Carolina

Francine, the calico store cat of a Lowe’s in Richmond, Virginia, has returned home after going missing for several weeks. The cat had inadvertently hitched a ride on a truck that traveled to a sister facility in Garysburg, North Carolina, about 85 miles away. Two Lowe’s employees drove 90 minutes early Monday to retrieve Francine, who resumed her usual duties in the store by Tuesday, interacting with customers and posing for photos. Store supervisor Wayne Schneider expressed how much Francine means to both employees and shoppers, highlighting the affection and daily attention she receives. Francine typically spends her time at the customer service desk or in the seasonal section, but disruptions in the store during preparations for the Christmas season may have caused her to wander. Surveillance footage later revealed that she had entered a truck in the receiving area, which was subsequently closed and transported to another state. Francine’s safe return brought joy to staff and customers alike, reinforcing her role as a beloved member of the store community.