Lafayette – Funeral services were held on Saturday, April 28, 2012, at a 10:30 a.m. Funeral Service in Martin & Castille’s La Fleur de Lis Chapel for Martin Francois Jr., 58, who passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 26, 2012, at his residence in Milton surrounded by his family.

Interment was in St. Joseph Cemetery in Milton.

Deacon Cody Miller conducted the funeral services.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Melanie Baudoin Francois of Milton; two sons, Lance Francois and Aaron Francois and his wife Sarah; one step-son, Ben Oustalet and his wife Roya; three grandchildren, Adeline Oustalet, Harrison Oustalet and Michael Francois; and four sisters, Lynette Oubre, Russel Ann Gary, Ellena Bishop and Maydell Greig.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Martin ans Doreen Burch Francois; and one brother, John Ronald Francois.

Martin Francois Jr., a native of Catahoula, was born on December 9, 1953, in St. Martinville, Louisiana. Martin joined the United States Marine Corps in 1971 and very proudly served as a Marine Corporal in the 8th Infantry. He served during the Vietnam War and earned numerous medals for his bravery, including the Combat Action Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnamese Service Ribbon.

Upon his return from Vietnam, Martin served as a bodyguard for President Richard Nixon. Martin enjoyed sharing his passions, motorcycling, cooking, music and guitars. He was an avid storyteller. Martin owned and operated Recon Coatings in Broussard. He loved and cherished his family and friends, and never met a stranger. He was blessed to have dear friends, who in turn blessed him. Martin always lived life to the fullest, and will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Francois’ name to Hospice of Acadiana, 2600 Johnston Street, Suite 200, Lafayette, LA. 70503 or visit www.hospiceAcadiana.com.

View the obituary and guestbook online at www.mourning.com.

Martin & Castille of Lafayette was in charge of arrangements.

(Pd.Adv.)