Lt Col William John Francis - Late 4KOYLI and 5LI

Oct 7, 2022
1 min read

It is with great sadness that I have to inform members that Lt Col William John Francis died on 31 August 2022 aged 89.

Lt Col John was born on 1 December 1932. He was commissioned into 4 KOYLI in the early 60s and served in 4KOYLI, and then 5LI. He became 2ic of 5LI and retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, although he never commanded the battalion.

Lt Col John was a very popular and effective officer, and a personal friend of Lt Col Robin Smith who attended the funeral at Hereford Crematorium on 26 September 2022. The funeral attended by family and friends although, sadly, only two of John's LI contemporaries were present.

Our thoughts and condolences at the sad time are with Lt Col John's family and friends.

As the bugle sounds 'No More Parades' and you take your place in the FRV,

your duty done with honour and distinction.

Rest in Peace Lt Col John.

Cede Nullis.