Leroy Albert Franks 89 years old passed away in Tampa, Florida on February 25, 2026. Born in St. Louis, Missouri to Albert and Amelia (nee Rubczak), retired from the government after 30 years in 1988, Dad often joked that he lived longer after retirement then he worked. A graduate of CBC Highschool in 1955. He earned the rank as Master Sergeant and distinguished himself as first-team all state goalkeeper for 3 consecutive years. In addition to soccer, he lettered in track, football, and baseball demonstrating his athletic talent. In 1956 LeRoy joined Breheny’s Soccer Club, and in 1957 he became a member of the legendary Kutis Soccer Club where he played until 1963. During these remarkable years, Kutis dominated soccer in the United States, winning 5 consecutive National Amateur cups and the National Open Cup in 1957. A proud moment for LeRoy was representing his country in the 1957 U.S. World Cup Team as a goalkeeper. He was inducted into the St. Louis Soccer Hall of Fame in 1996, head coach for Kutis and Assumption Catholic Parish and was a reff for Missouri High Schools for 15 years. Modest, never boasting of any achievement ever. An over the top proud father and grandfather.
Preceded in death son Michael Franks daughter, Loretta Benoist, Son-in-law Jack Benoist, Son, Anthony Franks and Grandson, Ryan Horr. Leroy had more heartache and loss then you could imagine however, he continued to stay positive and always looked at what he was blessed with that’s how he lived, giving thanks always. He is survived by his son, Joseph (Beth) Franks, daughter, Julia Kube, daughter, Mary (Gary) Bradley, Grandchildren Nicole Horr, Jessica (Jim) Dashner, Jon (Char) Franks, Matthew (Angela) Franks, Cierra Franks, Anthony (Riley) Bradley, Jaclyn (Ben) Mawson and 6 Great Grand kids Amelia and Drake Dashner, Avery and Madden Franks, Aniston and Maevyn Bradley, dear brother-in-law to Mike Kersten and sister-in-law and the late Don Kersten.
Dad and Grandpa, your strength, determination, and love shaped our family in countless ways. You taught us to work hard, stand tall, always look at our blessings, and never give up. We will miss your unwavering commitment to your family, your facial expressions, that “Leroy Look” when you were disgusted and every conversation. Thank you for all of your love!!!
A special thanks to Sue Thorp, you were a God sent to our Father, you shared compassion, kindness and Love to Dad and we thank God for you.
SERVICES: Memorial Visitation at the KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL, 10151 Gravois Road Thursday March 19, 1:00 P.M. until the time of service at 4:00 P.M.
God Bless you Leroy a gentle giant and wonderful loving family man
Rest in Peace
Mike & Carol
Sending my deepest condolences and love to the Franks family. I didn’t know Leroy Albert Franks personally, but I know the incredible light he left behind in his children. Rest in peace!
Thank you Patt for your kind words!
I will miss my friend, Leroy. He was the kindest man, friend, dad, and grandpa. I met him volunteering at Sacred Heart Church over 4 years ago. His illness was heartbreaking but it introduced me to a beautiful family , Joe,Julie and Mary and their children. Leroy will always be in my heart and I’m so lucky to have to have memories of this loving man. Rest in Peace Lee. Love Sue
To Julia and family please accept my deepest sympathy on the passing of your beloved father may god comfort you in your time of sorrow.
Dear Leroy….RIP my Cousin. I know you wanted to live as long as Grandma Julia Rubczak, she made it to 92. You were close. So that leaves me as the remaining 1st Cousin of the Rubczak Family. Say hello to our relatives that have passed. Peace be with You.
What a guy and quite a life! My deepest sympathies on the passing of your dad and grandpa to the entire family.