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William Falco Obituary
Sep 29, 1943 - Feb 19, 2026
William Rost Falco (Bill) passed from this life on February 19, 2026, leaving behind a city he helped shape, a family he deeply loved, and a community made better by his presence.
A burial will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, March 6, 2026, at Oakwood Cemetery, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Waco.
Born in Navasota, Texas, to Joe Savaggo Falco and Elvera Rost Falco, Bill's life was rooted in service, vision, and a deep love for people and places. After earning bachelor's and master's degrees in economics from Baylor University and a Ph.D. in environmental design and urban planning from Texas A&M, he began a lifelong commitment to Waco.
Arriving in 1972, Bill served as City Planner and Director of Planning and Community Development Services. He helped shape Indian Spring Park, the River Walk, and the revitalization of downtown. He believed thoughtful planning and partnership could create a more vibrant city, and he quietly worked to make that vision real. He also taught graduate classes at Baylor, mentoring future planners.
His volunteer service was extensive, including leadership roles with Keep Texas Beautiful, where he helped launch "Don't Mess with Texas", the Waco Symphony Orchestra, Historic Waco Foundation, Keep Waco Beautiful, Leadership Waco, the Family Abuse Center, the Waco Cultural Arts Festival, Community Race Relations Coalition, the Doris Miller Memorial, First Presbyterian Church, and many others. He gave freely of his time and energy.
Above all, Bill was devoted to his family. He was steady in hardship, joyful in celebration, quick to forgive, and unwavering in doing what was right. His children and grandchildren knew him as their greatest champion.
He was known for his full, contagious laugh and warm, steady presence that made others feel seen and valued.
Bill loved Waco, its river, neighborhoods, culture, people and promise. Because of his efforts, generations will continue to enjoy the city he cherished.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Phyllis Ponder Falco; his parents; his brother, Joe Savaggo Falco Jr.; and his special dog, Pepe.
He is survived by his son, Carter Falco; his daughter, Leslie Falco Smith; his son-in-law, Eric Smith; and his grandchildren, Zephyr and Vix Smith and Maddie Socha.
Memorial donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Waco, Cultural Arts of Waco (814 Elm Ave., Waco, Texas 76704), or a favorite organization serving Wacoans.
Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey
6101 Bosque Blvd. Waco, TX 76710
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Sponsored by Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home.
2 Entries
Gaynell Davis-Benson
March 4, 2026
Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of Bill; he was a man of many hats, and full of energy. He was full of knowledge and history re: Waco, he was impartial, but more importantly, he treated people with dignity. And, eventhough he was a small man in stature, his presence was able to demand attention, his laugh was strong and jolly, he shared a wealth of kindness, and he had an inviting spirit. Dr. Falco was a wonderful Planning Director whom I will always remember and love. Thank you Lord for allowing our paths to cross at the city, and please shower Carter and Leslie with the same compassionate attributes that Dr. Falco so graciously shared with countless others. (Glory in the Highest for a life well-lived)
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Joe Mashek
February 28, 2026
I use to work with Bill many years ago when I was County Commissioner. We were on several committee's together and always remember Bill being such a nice man and a very easy person to get along with. Yes, he has done much for Waco! Rest easy Dr. Bill, you deserve it.
Joe Mashek
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