Armando Ruben Franco

Armando married the love of his life, Mary Cecilia “Ceci” Franco, on January 6, 1973. Together they built a beautiful life, loving home, and lasting legacy in Houston for more than 53 years. Their love and devotion to one another was evident to everyone who knew them. Following Ceci’s passing just two months earlier, those closest to Armando could see how deeply he missed her. Their bond was unwavering, and his heart was never quite the same without her.

A hardworking provider, Armando dedicated his life to making sure his family never went without. Through sacrifice, determination, and countless long hours, he gave his family every opportunity possible and took great pride in caring for those he loved most. He led by example, teaching the value of hard work, perseverance, loyalty, family, and the importance of a firm handshake.

Armando was also an entrepreneur ahead of his time. With an ambitious spirit and a constant stream of ideas, he founded Hispanic food-focused grocery stores El Camino, El Camino International, and Pete’s Food Market, helping serve Houston’s growing Hispanic community long before many recognized the need. Even later in life, he was constantly coming up with new business ideas and enthusiastically sharing them with anyone who would listen, convinced they should turn his latest idea into a successful business. He ultimately finished his career with Sam's Club and thoroughly enjoyed retirement.

While Armando was a devoted father, the role he cherished most was being “Papa” to his grandson, Aaron, who was truly the light of his life. Whether he was picking Aaron up from school, going for quick trips to Chick-fil-A, taking him fishing, making him laugh, or simply spending time together, Armando found immense joy in being a grandfather. Through Aaron, he experienced one of the happiest chapters of his life.

Armando will also be remembered for his humor, storytelling, and love of conversation. He enjoyed making people laugh, sharing stories, and people-watching wherever he went. His presence filled a room, and his love for his family was unwavering.

Armando is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Cecilia Franco; his parents, Jose and Celia Franco; his brother, Joe Franco Jr.; his brother, Rodolfo “Rudy” Franco; sister-in-law Elaine Webber; brother-in-law Gary Webber; brother-in-law Arthur Cordova; and brother-in-law Steve Hoy.

He is survived by his daughter, Annette Howe (Andrew); his beloved grandson, Aaron Howe; his cousin, Ida Weaver; sister-in-law Connie Franco (Frank); sister-in-law Suzan Soltero (Jose); and sister-in-law Annette Hoy and many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

“Set me as a seal upon your heart … for love is strong as death” — Song of Solomon 8:6

A rosary and visitation will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026 at Settegast-Kopf Funeral Directors at 4:00 PM and rosary at 5:00 PM, with a reception to follow.

A funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday, June 2 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, with a reception to follow in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Armando’s honor to support T-cell lymphoma research at:

https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=U5AGMVEQMHXXY&utm_source=chatgpt.com