Gary Michael Francis' Obituary
Gary was born in Washington D.C. at Walter Reed Hospital in September 29, 1945. His father, James Robert, was a career Army Colonel. His mother, Cecelia Catherine Franaitis Francis, was born in Detroit Michigan. Both are deceased. He is survived by his sisters, Roberta Anne Francis Halden, Mary Jo Francis Miller, and Margaret Susan Francis Holloway and his step son Stephen DiStasi, daughter-in-law Deborah DiStasi and three grandchildren. His wife Patricia DiStasi predeceased him. Gary served in the Presidential Honor guard of the Army from 1963 to 1967. He marched in President Kennedy’s and General Douglas MacArthur’s funerals while on active duty. Graduating from the University of Hawaii in 1971 with a history and drama degree, he attended Oakland University in Michigan and obtained a Professional degree in Drama. He tried for about 5 years to become a professional actor but when he met his future wife, he changed direction. They married on September 2, 1977. His teaching certificate came from University of North Texas and he taught at Richardson High School for 25.5 years. After retirement he worked for Dallas County and Rains County School Districts. On Friday, March 25, 2016 we lost our beloved Gary. His love for his wife, his family, his grandchildren and the hobbies of reading and collecting German model trains were the major driving forces of his life. He will be greatly missed. Graveside Services will be held Thursday, March 31, 2016 at 10:00 A.M. at Restland Memorial Park. Visitation will be at Restland Funeral Home Wednesday, March 30, 2016 from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Restland Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75243.
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