Obituary published on Legacy.com by Highlands Family-Owned Funeral Home - Louisville on Mar. 2, 2026.
Francis "Frank" Elliott, 85, of Louisville, passed away peacefully at home on February 28, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on August 3, 1940, in Louisville, Frank was the son of John and Lib Elliott. He attended St. Xavier High School and remained a proud member of the Louisville community throughout his life.
On May 4, 1963, he married the love of his life, Shirley (Hourigan) Elliott. This May would have marked 63 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a life centered on family, faithfulness, hard work, and joy.
Frank was the founder of Artisan Industrial Metals, established on April 1, 1978. He co-owned and operated the business alongside his brother Tommy for 28 years and took great pride in his work and in the relationships he built over the years.
A dedicated volunteer, Frank gave generously of his time at Baptist Health Louisville, where he delivered newspapers to patients and served in the Endoscopy Unit for over a decade. Serving others brought him quiet fulfillment.
Frank was truly the life of the party - endlessly upbeat and unfailingly positive. He was loyal to his friends, selfless with his family, and a steady source of encouragement and support. He had a gift for making others feel welcome, valued, and deeply loved.
He found joy on the golf course, in his garden, and in his kitchen. He loved baking, cooking, and canning vegetables to share with family and friends. He and Shirley traveled the world together, creating treasured memories along the way. Annual family beach vacations became a beloved tradition that his children and grandchildren will forever hold close. Frank was also a devoted and proud supporter of the University of Louisville and an enthusiastic Cardinals fan.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Shirley Elliott; his four daughters, Pamela Villiger (Greg), Kelly West (Joe), Lisa Dittmar (Evan), and Jennifer Bandy; his cherished grandchildren, Amie Harris (Sterling), Kendra LaMure (Colin), Zachary Villiger, Lydia Villiger, Katie Rankin, Megan Acres (Phillip), Trenton Dittmar, Ashton Dittmar, Chloe Dittmar, Brooke Bandy, and Addison Bandy; and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Cecilia May, Diane Bohn, Tommy Elliott, Patrick Elliott, and Teresa Basham.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lib Elliott; and his siblings John Wayne Elliott, Danny Elliott, and Susan Spratt.
A private burial will be held and a celebration of life will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support during this time. Frank's legacy of joy, generosity, and unwavering love will live on in all who knew him.