Darryl Robert Francis II

Dr. Darryl Francis (Bob) passed away peacefully snug in his bed on January 16, 2026. He was surrounded by his husband Dale and his beloved dog Dolly Parton. His last days were filled with loved ones who came from afar and close by to bring him peaceful memories of happy times and much love.

Bob was born in Springfield, MO on August 14, 1940, to his Parents Florence Loretta Smyth Francis and Darryl Robert Francis. He attended Thomas Jefferson school in Normandy, MO, Seven Holy Founders Afton, MO, St.Theresa-Little Flower Memphis, TN, Christian Brothers College Memphis, TN, Notre Dame, Columbia School of Medicine Columbia, MO, and he was an intern at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Cincinnati General Hospital.

In 1966 he enlisted in the Navy during the Vietnam era. He had to report to Camp Pendleton in Long Beach, CA. Which was confusing to him since that is the Marines. They told him, " Oh doctor, we take our Chaplains and Doctors from the Navy".

After Vietnam he started his Practice in Fort Smith, Arkansas in 1974. During his many years of practice, he was Chief of Urology, Chief of Staff, Chief of Surgery and many, many more accolades and accomplishments during his long career. He retired in 2012.

In retirement as in life, he loved to travel extensively. His enthusiasm to see all the beautiful places God created was truly a wonder. Throughout his life he loved to bake bread and throw FABULOUS dinner parties. His elegance was astonishing. He loved to cook all of Julia Child’s recipes. She would be proud.

He enjoyed the local lakes as well. Having a weekend getaway to Tenkiller or a week or two at Lake Ouachita was a favorite. Hawaii became a favorite spot in the last few years of life with his husband, Dale. (Thank you Teresa Keller)

Dr. Francis was a kind, compassionate doctor and friend to all who was blessed to know him. He truly lived in the attitude of Christ. He was adored and loved by all and will be truly missed by all.

He was a dear sweet brother to two sisters: Linda Northip of Kansas City, KS and Marilyn Obermiller of Corvallis, OR. He was a beloved uncle to four nephews: Bill Northip, Bobby Northip, Darryl and David Northip. Two nieces: Jenni Bennett and Katie Schulie. Six great nieces and nephews.

Friends and family who would like to celebrate his life can attend and share their stories with us at his Celebration of Life Gathering at: ACHE - Arkansas Colleges of Health Education, 1000 Fianna Way, Fort Smith, AR 72916. Family will greet friends on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.