Edward Francois, left, receives a plaque from the Eunice Satellite Social and Civic Club and a framed certificate from the Louisiana Senate from Satellite president Mike Dupre, recognizing his 51 years in the club and community service.
jcomeau@eunicetoday.com
The Eunice Satellite Social and Civic Club honored one of its own last week, presenting retiring member Edward Francois with a plaque in recognition of his 51 years of membership in the club.
Francois, a native of New Orleans, came to Eunice to become Charles Drew High School’s first band director in 1956.
Satellite Club President Mike Dupre recalled how Francois would lead the marching band in practice by having them march up and down Beulah Street, the only paved road in the area at the time, and how the entire neighborhood would turn out to watch.
Francois is a Korean War veteran who earned his Bachelor’s degree from Xavier University and his Master’s from Southern.
He and his wife, Ardessie Francois, worked to introduce their students to the wider world.
He taught music in Eunice public schools until his retirement in 1986.
Dupre also presented Francois with a certificate from State Senator Elbert Guillory on behalf of the Louisiana Senate recognizing Dupre’s decades of service to the Eunice community.
Francois was the longest-serving member of the Eunice club, having joined shortly after its inception in 1961.
Although he has had to retire from the Satellite Club for personal reasons, Dupre told Francois he is always welcome at meetings.
Post a Comment