FRANCIS LEIGHTON WILCOX

October 20, 1946 - March 2, 2025

Francis Leighton Wilcox passed away on March 2, 2025 at Las Vegas hospital, following a brief illness. Francis was born on October 20, 1946 in Lowville, NY, the son of Lloyd and Jane Shepard Wilcox. He grew up in Lowville and graduated from Lowville Academy in 1965.

Francis worked at Law Brothers for several years, later formed a successful chimney sweeping business, and spent much of his life as a carpenter. During the last several years he enjoyed winters in Nevada and summers in Lowville.

Francis is survived by brothers Glenn Wilcox (Barb) of Lowville and Fred Wilcox (Frances) of Nevada, as well as a sister Carolyn Jeanne Mowers of Lowville. Fran also leaves a daughter, Michelle Hillenkamp (John) of Cypress, TX, three grandchildren, a great grandson, and several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by both of his parents. Fran was married to Mary Lou Guignard from 1985-2005 and has always been a much-loved member of the Guignard family; he will be affectionately remembered as Uncle Fran to a generation of Guignard, McCue, and Burr children as well as all the "barn girls" at White Frost Ranch.

Francis was active in summer golf leagues at Brantingham Golf Club. His regular participation in the Thomas McCue Annual Memorial Golf Tournament was always a significant event for him, along with friends and family.

Francis will be fondly remembered for his kindness, good nature, winning smile, and tender heart -- along with his memorable whistle. He could always be counted on to help others, no matter what the need was.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the VFW Post 10054, Pahrump, NV on April 13 at 2 p.m. A celebration to honor Fran's life will also be held in Lowville during the summer of 2025. Plans are incomplete at this time.