Billie Franco

Billie Franco, 87, passed away in her sleep on Saturday, the 17th of June, at The Villas at La Cañada in Tucson. A longtime resident of Tucson, she was born in St. David, Arizona and later moved with her family to Tucson. She graduated from Tucson High School and enrolled herself at St. Mary's School of Nursing, completing the program to become a Registered Nurse. She worked proudly as an RN at St. Mary’s Hospital throughout much of her life. She married Harold Franco at age 21 and their mutual love and respect was an inspiration to all who knew them. They shared interests in golf, travel, family, and U of A basketball. She loved to stay up late, reading or watching her favorite shows. She was strong, competent, and fiercely protective of all she held dear. She made a lemon meringue pie that no one has yet to surpass. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents Manuel and Ruth, and her brothers Manny and Ron. Billie is survived by her children — Ginger, Hal (Melodee), Barbara (Rand), her grandchildren — Whitney, Hallie, Wilson, Elise, Andee, and 3 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by six siblings — Virginia Reed, Robert Sabala, Margaret Hansen, Joseph Sabala, Paula Askeroth, Nikki Specker...and her many cousins, nieces, and nephews on both sides of the family. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Billie's memory to: Interfaith Community Services c/o Christ the King Episcopal Church 2820 W. Ina Road Tucson, AZ 85741 Or online: https://www.icstucson.org/memoryin-honor