Elden "Bud" Francisco

Holley: Elden "Bud" Francisco, 78, of Holley, New York, was called home September 11, 2025. Elden was born July 13, 1947, in Hornell, New York, a son of the late Elmer and Edith (Conklin) Francisco.

Bud was a hardworking man who spent a lifetime dedicated to the dairy industry: from working / owning a farm, driving tractor trailers for silos, milk and ice cream companies, or even just driving his daughter’s zero turn mowing her lawn. His children could all say that they all were truly “the milk man’s kids.”

Bud was outgoing and loved to make those around him laugh at his many funny jokes and stories. When taking a picture of him, you would have to remind him to be serious because most times he had a funny face or his tongue stuck out or even his fingers pointed at someone's head. 

Bud grew up being a Baptist missionary / pastor’s son and enjoyed attending services until he went into the rehab facility, where he regularly spoke with his assistant pastor. Even with a strict upbringing, Bud was forever the jokester. When he was little, his father would mention his name from the pulpit as he saw him messing around. One time, he was dipping a girl’s hair, who was sitting in front of him, into the inkwell. Over all the years, Bud acquired many adopted kids and grandkids. He made sure he had candy and would bring it to give to them before and after the services. 

Bud was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and cherished his time watching and rewatching their games. On football Sundays, he would purposely start watching the recording after the game started just so he could fast forward through the commercials and just watch the game. He loved his bowls of ice cream and popcorn. Every Saturday for dinner he had popcorn (in milk). His favorite meal was his daughter’s prime rib. He enjoyed watching the Hallmark movies with a couple favorites being the Abyss and Die Hard. 

Bud was a devoted father, loving grandfather, and a dear friend who profoundly impacted the lives of those around him. His warmth and kindness will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. 

Elden was predeceased by his sister Sharon Francisco.

Bud is survived by his children and their spouses: Sheri (John McConnell) Wachman, Kathy (Robert) Embury, James Francisco, Christy Francisco; grandchildren Kylle Johnson, Seth Wachman, Brenna Embury and Liam Embury; siblings Paul (Emily) Francisco, Ronald (Dora) Francisco and Sylvia Stephensen: former wife Peggy (Lancaster) Francisco and several nieces, nephews, cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Memorial Service on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 1:00PM at Old Paths Bible Baptist Church located at 4782 Hall Rd. Holley, New York 14470. His interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to the Old Paths Bible Baptist Church’s Missionary Fund. Earmark the donation on your donation check’s memo section as: “Missionary Fund In Memory Of Elden (Bud) Francisco”. 

Bud's arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Holley, NY.

To share a special memory of Bud, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.