Francois Illy

Francois Illy passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unforgettable presence. He lived a life rich in love, service, and connection, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Andreas and Anna Illy, his brothers, Stefan Illy and Peter Illy as well as his sisters, Therese Illy Sorger, Barbara IllyAlquie.

He is survived by his lifelong love of 55 years, his wife, Linda Illy; his children, Antoinette Illy, Etienne Illy (Dana) and two grandchildren, Andre and Gabriella; his siblings Antoine Illy and Elisabeth Illy, as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.

Francois Illy was born in Rohrbrunn, Burgenland, Austria. In 1964, his family immigrated from France to the United States aboard the SS Liberté. Fluent in multiple languages, he learned English easily, with German and French as his native tongues. He graduated from DePaul University in Chicago.

He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he enlisted and rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his service, he worked as an aircraft mechanic, maintaining fighter planes and serving on the flight line with dedication and skill.

Following his military service, he transitioned into sales and later became a co-owner of a tree and shrub farm in Lyndale, TX, ultimately retiring from Real Estate. His strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit were evident throughout his life.

Francois had a deep appreciation for the world around him. He possessed cultural awareness, linguistic talent, and a passion for motorcycles. He stayed informed on world events and enjoyed meaningful conversation.

His sense of humor was legendary, and he was often the life of any party. In true form, he once earned the title of “Mr. November” in a transplant pin-up calendar—a moment that captured his charm, confidence, and ability to find joy and laughter even in life’s most meaningful chapters. As a heart and kidney transplant survivor, he embraced life fully.

Above all, he will be remembered for his generosity, warm heart, humor, kindness, and patience. He was an honest man, a sincere listener, impeccably dressed, and a true gentleman. He had the rare and never ending gift of hospitality.

His memory will live on in the countless lives he touched and the love he shared so freely.

A Rosary will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, located at 16075 N Evans Rd, Selma, TX 78154, on January 22, 2026, from 10:00 am to 10:30 am. This will be followed by a Funeral Mass at the same location from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

A Committal Service with Military Honors with the United States Air Force will take place at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, Shelter 5, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, Texas 78209, on January 23, 2026, from 10:45 am to 11:00 am.

In Lieu of flowers, donations should be made to Texas Organ Sharing Alliance. The donations can be made in several ways: P.O. Box 29250, San Antonio, Texas 78229, or go to www.tosa1.org