John Leroy Francis (Plainview)

John Leroy Francis, 92 of Kress, passed away on Monday, December 10, 2012 in Plainview. Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 13, 2012 at 2:00 P.M. at Kornerstone Funeral Directors Chapel with Mr. Lanny Voss officiating. Burial will follow in Plainview Memorial Park under the care of Kornerstone Funeral Directors of Plainview. A visitation will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. Wednesday, December 12, 2012 at the funeral home. Leroy was born November 13, 1920 to Roger & Edith Francis in Ochiltree County, TX. He graduated West Texas State Teachers College in 1941. He married Mildred Clymore on December 15, 1946 in Lockney. Leroy served in the U.S. Army Airforce and would fly for United Airlines until 1946. Later he began farming in Swisher County and went on to cofound BFW Grain Company and Community Gin in Claytonville. He continued to actively farm in Swisher and Hansford counties until 2010. He was a board member and President of the Kress School Board for many years. Leroy was a lifelong member of the Claytonville Baptist Church where he served faithfully in all areas of the church. He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; and one foster son. He is survived by his wife, Mildred Francis of Kress TX; three sons, Richard Francis & wife Debbie of Plainview, TX, Joe Francis & wife San of Plainview, TX, and Barry Francis & wife Barbara of Waco, TX; one sister, Leona Langston of Beaverton, OR; nine grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and three great great grandchildren; and one sister in law, Pearlene Eubank. The family wishes to express special thanks to Leroy’s wonderful caregivers; Luverne Shannon, Yvonne Franklin, Sonya Blaylock, and Helen Jones. In luau of flowers the family suggest memorials be made to American Cancer Society, 3513 10th street, Lubbock, Texas 79415; Area Community Hospice 3109 Olton Road, Suite C, Plainview, TX 79072; or a charity of you choice.