Lionel Franco

LIONEL FRANCO -- On Tuesday, December 25, 2018, Lionel Franco went to be with his Lord and Savior, whom he loved the most. Please take a moment and share a fond memory or kind expression of sympathy for Lionel’s family at www.andersonbethany.com. Services: There will be a Viewing at Anderson Bethany Funeral Home on Thursday, December 27, 2018, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Family and friends will gather in celebration of Lionel’s purpose driven life at Church on the Move, on Friday, December 28, 2018, at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at General Douglas L. McBride Veterans Cemetery. On April 1, 1953, Lionel was born to Ignacio Franco and Mary R. Franco in Hanford, CA. He graduated from Roswell High School and would later attend Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell. Lionel married Rosie Robles on April 19, 1974, in Roswell, NM. He was a proud veteran, having served our country as a member of the United States Navy, and was honorably discharged on October 19, 1977. Lionel gave his life to the Lord eighteen years ago and throughout his illness, remained strong in his faith through prayer. When asked what his favorite scripture was, he would say ‘The Bible - God.’ He was an active member of Church on the Move, an avid softball enthusiast/coach, Dallas Cowboy fan, NMAA Official, and Classic Chevy Fanatic. Prior to Lionel’s retirement, he worked for the US Postal Service as a clerk. He was previously owner/operator of New Satellites. Lionel was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed, not only by his family and friends, but by all those fortunate enough to have known him. His daily scriptures and prayers via text to encourage others, will also be missed. Survivors: Those left to treasure and cherish memories of Lionel are his loving wife of forty-five years, Rosie Franco; children: Danielle Garcia (Mike) of Denison, TX, Alisha Alirez (George) of San Antonio, TX, Roxanne Hiatt (Kevin) of Fort Worth, TX, Marissa Sanchez (Lawrence) of Albuquerque, NM; grandchildren: Joseph, Melanie, Eric, Vanessa, Dominic, Kalen, Jacoby, Mia, Isaias; sisters: Emalda Lara, Erma Horton, Teresa McDaniels; brother, Sammy Salcido; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by Ronnie Castillo. Preceded: Lionel was preceded in death by his parents, Ignacio Franco and Mary R. Franco; siblings: Joseph W. Franco, Lina Portillo, and Nadine Franco. Pallbearers: Chosen to serve as Pallbearers will be Mike Garcia, George Alirez, Kevin Hiatt, Lawrence Sanchez, Joseph Franco, and Eric Garcia. The family would like to give a Special Thanks to the VA in Albuquerque and Artesia, ENMMC-Roswell, Kindred Hospice for the excellent care that was given to Lionel. Thanks to Church on the Move for their prayers, faith, and support.

Lionel Franco

April 1, 1953 - December 25, 2018