A flawless record: When Cleveland “Cleve” Francis first donned his UPS uniform in 1967, the world was a much different place. Gasoline was $0.33 a gallon, a new event called the Super Bowl played its first game, and color televisions were a luxury. Fast forward to today, and Cleve is one of the safest drivers in our company's history. Based in Louisville, Kentucky, he’s retiring at 82 after nearly six decades of accident-free driving.
“I really liked my job because no two days are alike when you’re driving and working outside,” Cleve said. “And, UPS is a great company to work for – I made a lot of money, with great equipment and great safety training.”
Mr. Reliable: Cleve's 58-year career at UPS exemplifies professionalism and service. While driving our iconic brown package cars and big-rig trucks, he logged an astounding 5 million miles without a single accident. That’s about 11 round trips to the moon. This accomplishment made Cleve one of the longest-serving members of the UPS Circle of Honor – an impressive group of nearly 10,000 UPS drivers who have clocked a minimum of 25 years without an accident.
“Cleve’s safe driving record at UPS is extraordinary. His dedication and commitment to service reflect the very best of who we are,” said UPS Executive Vice President and President U.S. Nando Cesarone. “His achievement will forever be part of UPS history and should inspire every UPSer who serves our communities.”
“The secret to safe driving is to keep your mind focused on what you’re doing. When you get plenty of rest, you can stay alert and eliminate distractions,” Cleve said. “The training and the technology really help UPS drivers stay safe.”
“Cleve’s reliability is legendary, and his peers look up to him. He’s a Kaplan Driver of the Year award winner and even saved a customer’s life,” UPS Transportation Manager Samantha Alvey said. “His hard work and dedication leave an inspiring legacy.”
Lasting impact: We’re celebrating Cleve not just for his exemplary service and safety record, but also for the positive impact he’s had on the company and the community. Cleve’s story is a reminder of our enduring bonds with the communities we serve, and the values of trust, responsibility, excellence and integrity that define UPS.
“I’ll miss the people at UPS and the customers I met over the years, they were like kinfolk,” Cleve said, reflecting on his legacy. “If they ever gave me a job, I got it done … that’s how I want to be remembered.”
Did you know:
- More than half of our delivery drivers have been with UPS for 10+ years.
- In 2024 alone, UPS contributed more than $9 billion to employee health, welfare and pension benefits.
- Paid pensions like those offered to UPS retirees are rare. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 15% of private industry workers have access to a defined benefit plan.