Frank Francois III

Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on April 5, 1933, Frank lived a life defined by faith, service, education, leadership, and love of family.

He attended Southern University, where he participated in ROTC and began preparing for a life of military service. During his Army career, he earned his master's degree from George Washington University, reflecting his lifelong commitment to learning and professional excellence.

Colonel Francois served his country with honor for more than twenty-eight years, retiring as a full Colonel in 1981. A highly respected transportation and logistics officer, he served in assignments throughout the United States and overseas during both the Korean and Vietnam eras.

During his second tour in Vietnam, Colonel Francois commanded the 57th Transportation Battalion, providing critical logistical support to U.S. military operations. Later in his career, he was selected to command the Military Ocean Terminal at Bayonne (MOTBY), once one of the Army's most strategically important transportation installations. His service also included senior logistics and planning assignments at the Pentagon.

Throughout his career he completed numerous advanced military leadership programs, including the Command and General Staff College and the Nuclear Weapons Employment Staff Course. His distinguished service earned numerous military decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and other honors recognizing nearly three decades of exceptional leadership.

Frank's commitment to service extended beyond the Army. He was among the founders of The Rocks, an organization dedicated to mentoring, supporting, and advancing African American military officers and professionals. He believed deeply that leadership carried with it the responsibility to develop future leaders.

He was a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., whose ideals of scholarship, fellowship, good character, and service reflected the values by which he lived.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lillie Bordenave Francois; his second wife, Sharon Francois; and other cherished family members.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Wanda Kirkpatrick, Karen Francois, Frank Francois IV; and Greg Francois; his grandchildren; extended family; fraternity brothers; fellow veterans; and countless friends, colleagues, and protégés whose lives were enriched by his wisdom, generosity, and example.

Colonel Frank Francois believed leadership was measured not by rank, but by character, service, and the responsibility to lift others as they climbed. His legacy lives on through the soldiers he led, the officers he mentored, the organizations he strengthened, and the family he loved so deeply.

Interment with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery is planned. Service details will be announced once arrangements with Arlington National Cemetery have been finalized.