- Date Of Birth: June 5, 1925
- Date Of Death: December 24, 2016
- State: Alabama
Mr. William H. French, age 91, of Lanett passed away on Saturday, December 24, 2016 at Ridgeview at Meadowbrook in Birmingham, after a short illness.
Mr. French was born on June 5, 1925 in Wedowee, Alabama to the late Homer Felix French and Exa Mae Kirby French.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Carolyn Harmon French; son, Phillip Wayne French; son-in-law, Tye Fields; sisters, Annie Mae Parker, Gladys Craft; other extended family members.
Mr. French was a United States Navy Veteran who served during World War II. He was stationed aboard the USS LST 523. The USS LST 523 and its crew made two round trips to the Normandy Beachhead, during the allied invasion of Western Europe, commonly referred to as D-Day. He was awarded the Purple Heart for his heroism and combat during this invasion. He was honored and proud to serve as the Grand Marshal of the Birmingham, Alabama’s National Veterans Day parade in 2016.
After his service to his country, Mr. French went to work for the West Point Pepperell Company and retired as a supervisor of the Card Room. He loved his family. He was an avid bird feeder and an avid supporter and fan of Auburn University. He would be frequently seen walking through the community of Lanett for exercise, while picking up litter and cans.
He is survived by his daughters, Janice (Rick) Skinner, Birmingham, Nancy Fields, Columbus, GA., Jane (Rick) Telhiard, Mobile, AL; grandchildren, Jacob (Cheryl) Skinner, Tampa, FL., Jessica (Joel) Snead, Birmingham, Nicole Telhiard, Mobile, Jeremy Telhiard, Mobile, Trey Fields, Columbus, GA., Caitlyn (Marc) Parrish, Charleston, SC; great-grandchildren, Malea and Aubrey Skinner, Lily and Max Snead; a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the staff of Ridgeview at Meadowbrook for the care and support given to Mr. French. A special thank you to Kathy, Horace, and Edith.
