Frank "Bud" William Herndon Jr.

Loving father and husband, Francis William Herndon Jr. “Bud” aged 81 was born February 17, 1943, in Evansville, Indiana. He passed away on August 27, 2024. He was preceded in death by his father, Francis William Herndon Sr., his mother, Opotre Lee Herndon, and his brother Maurice Penix Herndon.

His father, Lt. Col. Francis William Herndon Sr. served in the Army during WWII and was also a member of the famed Buffalo Soldiers. Lt. Col. Herndon moved the family to Germany in 1948, where they remained until 1953.

Francis attended Wyandotte High School in Wyandotte County, Kansas. When his family moved to Missouri during his sophomore year, he attended and graduated from Southeast High School in Kansas City, MO in 1961. After graduating high school, he attended Lincoln University, Penn Valley Community College, and graduated from the University of Missouri in Kansas City with honors. UMKC formally recognized his academic achievement by bestowing upon him membership in the Golden Key and Phi Kappa Phi honor societies.

Francis also served in the National Guard for 6 years, attended Officer Training School, and obtained the rank of 1st Lieutenant.

His employment included The Bendix Plant, Kansas City Power and Light Co., Kansas City Missouri Housing Authority, and DuBois Consultants. Following retirement, he co-founded F&R consultants with his wife, Robbie.

Though “Bud” was highly intelligent and academically accomplished, he enjoyed having a Good Time. He was recognized throughout venues in the community for drum playing and other instrumental performances. Frank’s community engagements also extended to his serving as the neighborhood association’s president, board member of UMKC Alumni Association and coaching for the South Suburban Basketball Association, as well as serving as president.

He leaves to cherish his memory:

His loving wife of 49 years, Robbie “Angel” Herndon (his partner and friend).

His 3 sons: Gordon M. Herndon, Mark P. Herndon, and Brice G. Herndon.

Siblings: Michael P. Herndon, Gregory H. Herndon, and Phillip D. Herndon.

Grandchildren: Nicholas G. Herndon, Aaron M. Herndon, Jayden R. Herndon, Harper R. Herndon, Lauryn S. Herndon, Mark P. Herndon Jr., Miles G. Herndon, and Justice M. Herndon.

He leaves a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, family and dear friends.