William Clifford French

William “Bill” French was born in Syracuse, NY, to Alexander and Marion. He was one of five children, with two older brothers (Sandy & Jim), one older sister (Sue) and one younger sister (Karen). Family camping trips, “Cherry Street Gang” adventures, and scouting stories were regaled to his daughters with reverence and joy. He graduated from Martin Van Buren High School in Queens Village, NY.  He continued his education at Onondaga Community College in Syracuse, NY, earning honors studying accounting. After a few months exploring California, 21-year-old Bill went back to Syracuse to visit family…and had a date with destiny. In early 1968, at a family gathering and after a well-played game of Charades, Bill met his match. November 1968, Bill and Carol were married.

A few years on, Bill and Carol visited her parents in Florida – shortly after, they relocated to Tampa. Bill attended the University of South Florida (U. S. F.) where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. After discovering his love of flying and becoming a certified private pilot, Bill created the University of South Florida Flying Club. His tireless efforts to gain approval from the FAA and U. S. F. administration were rewarded. Bill’s recollection of the sun setting on the fleet of small aircraft parked, after landing on U. S. F. campus streets, was a high point for him and source of tremendous personal accomplishment. Their baby daughter, Kris, was on hand to “witness” his success.

Bill and Carol moved to Houston, TX, in 1978. Bill was awarded his Doctor of Jurisprudence from the South Texas College of Law, passed the Bar Exam, welcomed daughter Mary and commenced a 30-year career as a distinguished attorney. Acting lessons were recommended by a friend to enhance his courtroom presence. A talented, committed and prepared actor, Bill won multiple roles in film, T.V., and on stage. By combining his love of acting, natural Santa inclinations and pouring in his love of God – Santa Bill was born. For more than 40 years, Santa Bill brought joy to children of all ages. As Bill was an enthusiastic volunteer as a youth and young man, Santa Bill found profound purpose serving programs for autistic children, numerous children’s hospitals, non-profit organizations and even hospice visits. Santa Bill joined a fledgling organization called the Lone Star Santas and participated in the first Convoy of Toys after an EF5 tornado devastated Joplin, MO. Love, hope, joy and toys, all wrapped in a big Santa hug brought much needed relief to a community in need.

After relocating to Jacksonville, FL, in 2016, Bill and Carol were welcomed into the Mandarin United Methodist Church flock. Bill enjoyed the fellowship during Sunday school, United Methodist Men gatherings, worship service and providing his jolly talents during the Christmas seasons. Their steadfast love, support and friendship carried our family through trial and triumph. Bill’s faith gave him strength and comfort through during difficult times and warmed his heart in peaceful times.

Bill’s bear hugs, infectious laughter, “HO! HO! HO!”s, and sweet smile will be dearly missed. While our hearts are broken, we are forever grateful for, and to, him. Every life he touched was divinely orchestrated and is his legacy.

For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Proverbs 23:7 KJV.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Alexander; his brothers, Sandy and Jim; his niece, Mikey; and his nephew, Skip.

Survived by his loving wife, Carol; daughters, Kris (Paul) and Mary (Matt); sisters, Sue and Karen; sister-in-law, Pat; grandchildren, John Paul (Kaley), Justin, Billy, Zac and Chloe; great grandchildren, Anslee and Carter; many nieces and nephews, and lifelong friends.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude for the love and support from our Mandarin United Methodist Church family. Additionally, our sincere thanks to the Haven Hospice (Orange Park) team for providing a peaceful place for our family.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 8, 2025, at noon, at Mandarin United Methodist Church, 11270 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32223. Reception on campus to follow.

Sympathy donations in Bill’s memory can be sent to Mandarin United Methodist Church or The Lone Star Santas at lonestarsantas.org/donate. Flowers may also be sent to the church on March 8th for the Celebration event.

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