Roll Call Tribute

William G. "Buddy" Francis, Jr. 

May 24, 1943 - October 18, 2024 

William G. (Buddy) Francis, Jr. was born on May 24, 1943, in Bryan, Texas and passed to his new home with Jesus on October 18, 2024.

Buddy is preceded in death by his parents, W.G. and Opal Summerville Francis, parents-in-law Raymond and Bernice Duncan Milberger, brother and sister-in-law Donald and Connie Francis, sister and brother-in-law Edith and Willie Morgan and sister-in-law Lydia Francis.

He is survived by the love of his life, Evelyn Milberger Francis, sons and daughters-in-law Mark and Laura Francis (Sandy Utah) and Keith and Linde Francis (College Station Texas). Grandchildren surviving him are Brianna, Joshua and fiancé Hailey Taylor, Micah, Moriah Francis (Mark & Laura), Bayle, Reid and Siena Francis (Keith & Linde). Surviving as well, is a host of nephews, nieces and cousins.

Buddy grew up in the Tabor community enjoying farm life and childhood escapades with cousins and friends. He graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School and Texas A&M University. At a young age Buddy committed his life to Christ and desired to follow Him in all areas of life. The Lord gave him a passionate interest in all aspects of the livestock industry especially cattle and horses, allowing him to pursue these interests his entire life. Buddy often told family and friends that “everyday was a new day and each day was never ‘work’ to him”.

From Bryan & Tabor, his journey with Evelyn led him to Beeville and Fredericksburg with the USDA Soil Conservation Service (now the NRSC). From there, they moved to Johnson City and the Selah, Bamberger Ranch where he served 26 1/2 years as Resident Livestock Manager and Cattle Breeder. He had the privilege to develop a new breed of cattle (Grassmaster ™) and teach many adults and children about God’s beautiful creation and how to be stewards of it. He and Evelyn returned to Brazos County and the Wheelock area to more fully pursue raising their Brahman and crossbred cattle. In each of those communities are a host of friends that brought him much joy through the years.

As a faithful follower of Christ, Buddy felt called to be a Christian rancher and a teacher. For over 50 years he taught youth and adult Bible Study and was quick to share how blessed our lives could be by following God’s principles of life. The care and interest in his family were paramount in his life. Being involved in all his son’s and grandchildren’s activities gave him many memories and brought such joy to his life. He was always interested in what everyone was doing, He was truly thankful and blessed by their respect, love and care for him and Evelyn.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the care and expertise of his physicians, as well as to Hospice Brazos Valley for their tender care. Sarah (Hospice Nurse), thank you for your support and meaningful advice that helped Buddy’s family to navigate these last days. Also, thank you Bro. David and DeeAnna May and our church family for your faithful friendship and assistance in planning Buddy’s celebration service. Lastly, the family appreciates the gracious assistance of Memorial Funeral Home of Bryan.

Contributions may be made to the Wheelock Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 156, Wheelock, Friends of the Wheelock School House, PO Box 26 or to the Wheelock Cemetery Association, PO Box 14, Zip Code 77882.

A visitation for William will be held Wednesday, October 23, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Wheelock Baptist Church with a funeral service beginning at 11:00 AM. Interment following at Wheelock Cemetery.

IN THE CARE OF
Memorial Funeral Chapel