Mr. Luther Francis

Luther Vernon Francis ~ A CELEBRATION OF A LIFE WELL LIVED ~ We bid farewell to LUTHER V. FRANCIS who departed from this world on June 10, 2024, at the distinguished age of 101 years old. Luther V. Francis was a gentle giant who walked through life with strength and conviction, touching the lives of so many in unimaginable ways. As the only child of Ethel Mae Francis, this Centenarian was born in Paris, Texas. Luther’s life was a testament to dedication, intellect, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. He exhibited a precocious nature and quiet demeanor in his early life, graduating as Salutatorian from Gibbons High School in Paris, TX. Luther continued his journey with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression, where he contributed significantly to the development and conservation of rural America’s natural resources. At the CCC camp in Bogota, Texas, he sent his modest earnings home to support his mother, exemplifying his early sense of duty and selfishness. In 1942, Luther enrolled at Prairie View College (now Prairie View A&M University) where he acquired both baccalaureate and master’s degrees. Luther later served honorably in the United States Army during World War II. Recognized for his exemplary surveying skills, he underwent advanced training in South Carolina and Alabama. His military service was marked by dedication and excellence. After the war, Luther completed his master’s degree and joined the faculty at Prairie View A&M College. As Head of Engineering Graphics, Advanced Surveying, and Business Law, and later as Business Manager for the Athletic Department and Director of Physical Plant, Luther’s contributions were pivotal in shaping the institution’s future. His work in designing and landscaping the Prairie View campus remains a lasting testament to his vision and keen attention to detail. The multi-talented Luther V. Francis was a man of many interests. He was known for his elegance and charm. Additionally, he was an accomplished pilot. He frequently was known to fly his private plane across Texas. His intimate knowledge of the terrain earned him the nickname “Prairie View Veteran.” Despite facing challenges, including a mistaken arrest on the night of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s assassination due to his light complexion, Luther remained a steadfast pillar of his community. A devout Christian and dedicated family man, Luther was a beloved father to his daughter, Delores “Dodie” Francis White, who he proudly saw crowned “Miss Prairie View A&M College,” in 1968. All six of his children matriculated and received degrees from Prairie View A&M College, with three of those children ‘walking in their father’s footprints’ by majoring in Engineering. Additionally, his architectural prowess was well-recognized, having designed notable structures such as the Leroy Moore House and the homes of esteemed individuals including Robert and Sarah Williams and Dr. J. C. Williams, His passion for architecture was matched by his dedication to mentoring, and guiding students and colleagues with wisdom and kindness. In honor of his centennial journey, the CITY OF PRAIRIE VIEW declared February 25, 2023, LUTHER VERNON FRANCIS DAY. Luther’s life was indeed a testament to resilience, intellect, and an unyielding spirit of love and an indelible mark on the Prairie View community. Left to continue his life learnings are his sons Deryl Vernon Francis (Sally) Raani Travon Francis (Deborah); daughters, Delores ‘Dodie’ White (Ronnie); Tanya Banks; Vanie Francis, and Cheryl Briscoe. Fifteen grandchildren; Fifteen great grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren, as well as a long-time friend Bobbie Garrett, and a host of friends, former students and other family members. Even though he is gone from this earth, we are still attached to the threads of his greatness now and forever more. Professor Francis lifelong commitment to education, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Dallas Prairie View Alumni Chapter Zelle: dallaspv@yahoo.com Cash app: $dallaspv or mail to Dallas PV Alumni P.O. Box 765314 Dallas, Texas 75736

Mr. Luther Francis

February 24, 1923 - June 10, 2024