John Elbert Francis

John E. Francis, 87, of Edmond, OK, passed away on February 22, 2025. Born on March 14, 1937, in Kingfisher, OK, to John A. and Virginia Francis, he married Susan Bentley in 1962. A dedicated University of Oklahoma supporter, John earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees in mechanical engineering from OU. He spent 25 years as a professor and associate dean in the OU College of Engineering. In 1990, he joined Bradley University in Peoria, IL, as dean of engineering, retiring in 1998.

A life-long learner, John enjoyed traveling the world with family and friends, attending OU sporting events, and arts and educational events at OU and in Oklahoma City. He was a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow. He was also a devoted supporter of his hometown of Kingfisher. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. 

Preceded in death by his parents, sister Peggy, and brother-in-law Harold Reherman, John is survived by his wife, Sue; sons John C. Francis of Leawood, KS, and Steven M. Francis and Katie O’Donnell of Pasadena, CA; and sister Jane Kenney and John Kenney of Oklahoma City.

A funeral service will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Edmond on Thursday, Feb. 27, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the John E. Francis Scholarship Fund at the University of Oklahoma College of Engineering.