Michael Robert Francis

Michael Francis passed away on January 3, 2022 at the age of 85 in Tulsa, OK. Michael was born in Chicago, Il and graduated from Marmion Military Academy, John Carroll University, and Loyola of Chicago School of Dentistry. In 1962, Michael joined the Air Force and was stationed at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, MS. It was in Biloxi that Michael met the love of his life Shirley Taranto, and they were married in 1963. Together they moved around the country, Europe, and Asia with their 3 daughters Mary Jo, Elanor and Lisa. Michael retired from the Air Force in 1986 and began teaching at Loma Linda Dental School, where he was a beloved professor and mentor to many students over his 20 years there. Upon retirement in 2006, he and Shirley began traveling the world, attending several Formula 1 races and many car shows. After almost 40 years in Riverside, Michael and Shirley moved to Tulsa in 2020 and enjoyed a year in their new home, until Michael passed. Michael is survived by his adoring wife, Shirley of 58 year; and his daughters, Mary Jo Tasker (Treak), Elanor Capuano (Nick), and Lisa Fanslau (Edmund Jr). Michael was wonderful Grampy to 8 grandchildren, William Tasker, JT Tasker, Michael Capuano, Joseph Tasker, Edmund Fanstau I, Kelly Capuano, Dominic Fanslau, and Mary Fanslau. His sister and only sibling, Phyllis Albritton (David), sadly passed away on January 6 ,2022. Michael is also survived by many nieces and nephews and other extended family.

Michael will be forever remembered for his generosity, sense of humor and love for his family. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, December 6, 2024 at Nativity B.V.M Cathedral, at 11 a.m., with family and friends invited to gather at 10 a.m. Michael and Shirley will rest together at the Old Biloxi Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, Howard Avenue in Biloxi.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Michael Francis.