It is with great pride that we announce that Francois finished the race set before him and is now dancing in Heaven. Where there is deep grief there is even greater love. And the love that we all share for Francois is only a sliver of what he held for us. Francois Bandiaky, 65, passed away in his home surrounded by family on December 1, 2021. Francois was born in Dakar, Senegal on March 10, 1956. He was welcomed into Heaven by so many he loved, his mom, Idalina, his dad, Marcel, his brother, Alex, and his sister, Celeste.

When he was just 21 years old Francois made the hard decision to leave all he knew and came to America. He had two sons, Jerome and Jean (Frankie). He then married his beautiful bride, Veronique, and had three more children, Sahisha, Julian, and Sabrina.

He did so much good in his 65 years of life. He didn't need a reason to love, he made everyone feel like family. He took the time to care for those around him even if all he had was a moment. We all share fond memories of Francois' generosity and compassion. He was a man of second chances because he saw the best. He held onto hope and shared his faith with those around him, in big ways and the day to day. From helping bring light to youth to giving encouragement to those who were on the verge of giving up.

Francois was truly the life of every party. Wherever there was a dance floor you could always find him on it. From a young age he has always had an appreciation for music and the arts, everything beautiful this life had to offer. He enjoyed tinkering with different instruments, from pianos to drums, always picking them up quickly and winding up playing them on a stage, adding his own African flare. He was an amazing chef and was always creating new dishes and making meals to be shared.

His legacy will be carried on by his bride, Veronique, his children Jerome, Jean (Frankie), Sahisha, Julian, Sabrina, and Marcel; step-sons Paul and Phil, his four grandchildren, Jayvon, Jayanna, Tyler, Gabriella and nieces and nephews.

Keeping with Francois' generous and loving spirit it was his decision to give the gift of life through organ and tissue donation so that others may live it. And in the words of his grandson, Jayvon, "He is around everyone now and he will always be watching over us." As a family we plan on laying his remains with his family in Dakar, Senegal.

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