Billy Max Francis

Bill graduated from Enid High School and then attended Oklahoma A&M University (Oklahoma State University). In 1969, he began his career with Southwestern Bell Telephone Company where he held various positions throughout Oklahoma. In 1983, he moved to Plano, TX and was named Regional Director of System Operations and Implementation for Southwestern Bell Mobile Systems Inc. He later transferred to Southwestern Bell Corporation to help establish and oversee cellular growth in a five-state region. In 1991, after the sale of Southwestern Bell to AT&T, Bill retired from AT&T and began his consulting career in the telecommunications industry. For the next 19 years, Bill shared his expertise of the cellular network and facility installation in numerous locations, both domestically and internationally. He was fortunate to work with many Dallas-based companies such as Jefa International, Allegiance Telecom, AT&T Wireless, Goodman Telecom, Burr Computer Environments, Insight Global, and T-Mobile.

When he was not working, Bill enjoyed playing golf with his good friends, watching his favorite local sport teams (Rangers, Mavericks, Stars, along with the OK State Cowboys), dining out, and traveling. He especially loved Taos, NM. His perfect vacation may have been a round of golf in Taos followed by a nice dinner.

Bill is survived by his wife, Pat, whom he married on March 16, 2007. He is also survived by his daughter, Teri Francis (Mark) of Hammond, LA, and son Billy Francis II (Kim) of Flower Mound, TX and three stepsons Randy Chelf (Donna) of Enid, OK, Steve Chelf of Celina, TX, and Brad Chelf (Jessi) of Celina, TX. He leaves behind five grandchildren (Travis, Brooke, Andrew, Brett, and Ryan) and five step grandchildren (Colton, Clint, Courtney, Case, and Gage), five great-grandchildren (Braden, Kiara, Madelyn, Mason, and Liam) and five step great-grandchildren (Camden, Addison, Cash, Chloe, and Carter). Bill is preceded in death by his parents and his daughter, Tami (Shawn) Waller.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to the many medical providers that cared for Bill during his illness, and especially the staff at Settlers Ridge Care Center in Celina, TX. The care, support, and unmatched compassion they showed during his final days will never be forgotten. A private celebration of life will be held by the family in honor of Bill. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity in Bill’s memory.