Billy French

Billy Charles French, 79 beloved husband, father, and Poppa passed away on Saturday, June 7, 2014. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at St. Andrews Episcopal Church, 505 North Pennsylvania on July 19, 2014 at 2:00 pm.

Bill was born in Levelland, Texas on September 26, 1934 to W.O. and Mamie Chick French who preceded him in death. His brother Don French also preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife Elaine son Alan French and wife Sarahjane of Ruidoso, daughter Delaina Franzoni of Roswell, daughter Davona Hickey and husband Robert of Roswell. Poppa is survived by seven grandchildren: Darin Franzoni and wife Laura of Aurora, Colorado Alyssa Hopkins and husband Daniel of Bosque Farms Kara Hickey of Rio Rancho Caitlin Kipp of Ruidoso Abagail Kipp of Ruidoso Breanna Hickey of Roswell Erica French of Ruidoso great grandson Ian Connor Hopkins nephew Donnie French and a niece Kim Young.

Bill was a gifted athlete and was a member of Roswell High Schools 1952 State Basketball Championship team. He went on to play basketball for the NMMI Broncos and ENMU Greyhounds. Pops often recounted stories about the exploits of his teams as they traveled around the country playing the game he loved so much. Upon graduation he was able to continue his love of the game as a coach. He was an assistant coach for the Roswell High state champions in 1962. He moved over to Goddard and was the head basketball coach until 1974. He moved to Dexter to become the Principal of the high school until his retirement in 1985. During his career he touched many lives and provided a living example of gentle strength and leadership.

Bill was a past Exalted Ruler of the BPOE 969. He enjoyed the many friends and activities he was involved in while a member of the Elks. Bill has served the community in many capacities and enjoyed meeting and working with everyone.
Bill discovered his passion for art after his retirement. He was a very talented painter with acrylic being his favorite medium. He was a member of and sold his work at The Gallery. He was also a member and past vice president of the Roswell Fine Arts League.

Bill was confirmed into St Andrews Episcopal Church in 1986. Through the years he has enjoyed attending services with his children, grandchildren and many friends. He served on the vestry for many years and took great pleasure in being an usher for services. Bill had always felt he found a home when walking into the church for the first time. It was his wish to have his ashes interned in the columbarium there.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Service

Memorial Service

St. Andrews Episcopal Church
505 N. Pennsylvania
Roswell, NM  88201
Saturday, July 19, 2014
2:00 pm

Cemetery

St. Andrews Episcopal Church
505 N. Pennsylvania
Roswell, NM  88201

Memorial Contributions

8008 Slide Road, Suite 12-A
Lubbock, TX  79424