Jose Angel Franco

Jose A. Franco “Joe”, born January 7, 1942, in Coal Mine, Texas, to Vincente and Margarita (Porto) Franco. He passed away on July 21, 2024 in his home, surrounded by his family. He lived a rich and fulfilling life, marked by hard work, dedication, and a love for family and simple pleasures.

Joe spent much of his early career as a derrick hand in the oil fields, later transitioning to construction work. His strong work ethic led him to Bar S, where he worked until his retirement in 2013. Remarkably, he taught himself to read and write, embodying resilience and determination.

Joe was able to find love twice in his lifetime. He married Maria in 1966 and spent many beautiful years together raising 6 children. Maria later passed away in 1992. Joe then found love a second time and married Sheryl on December 28, 2001.

He had a passion for music, and often found singing and playing the guitar. Joe enjoyed fishing, and he cherished the times spent grilling out with family and friends. Alongside his beloved wife Sheryl, he was an active member of the Blind Club, finding community and support among its members.

The highlights of his life were deeply rooted in family. He treasured his upbringing with his parents and held dear the moments spent with loved ones. Marrying Maria was a pinnacle of his joy, and together they shared a life filled with love and companionship. His role as a preacher was a testament to his faith and commitment to guiding others. In his leisure, he found great enjoyment in watching Western movies, a pastime that brought him much comfort and nostalgia.

Joe leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Vincente and Margarita, wives, Maria Franco and Sheryl Franco, and sister, Maria Luisa Roque.

Left to cherish Joe’s memory and legacy are his children; Eusebio Ramos of Weatherford, Miguel Franco of El Reno, Estevan “Steven” and Priscilla Franco of Clinton, Angelina “Angie” Rios and Benjamin of OKC, Teresa and Robert Morley of Clinton, Matilde “Tilly” Franco, of Clinton, step son, Jason Cryer and Johnna of OKC, and step daughter, Sabrina Huddleston of Clinton, sisters, Connie Franco of Clinton, and Irene and Daniel Williams “Uncle Red” of Arapaho, 18 grandchildren; John, Phillip, Minnie Maria, Esperanza, Eusebio Jr, Armondo, Maria, Marcus, Tony, Charles, Andrew, Derek, Jason, Mason, Karson, Rome, Lilly, and Riley, he is also survived by a host of other family and friends.

A funeral service for Mr. Jose “Joe” Franco will be held at the Arapaho First Baptist Church at 601 Main Street in Arapaho, Oklahoma. Interment will follow at Clinton Cemetery.