William Francis Holford

William “Bill” Francis Holford, age 69, of Haslet, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026. He was born on October 28, 1956, in Clifton, New Jersey, to Francis and June Holford.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Saint Teresa of Calcutta Catholic Church. Bill would want this day to feel less like a farewell and more like a standing ovation. He believed life was meant to be celebrated, not mourned — and he lived in a way that made celebration inevitable. Raised in

Fairfield, Connecticut, he attended Ludlow High School and spent his early years filling stockrooms with laughter and 8-track music at NBO Clothing Store alongside the Fairfield crew — Jim, Bob, Roy, Tim, and Tommy. Summers in Pennsylvania brought just enough mischief with his favorite cousins Ronnie, Lisa, and Ellen to keep life interesting. Music came early and stayed forever; he started the first of many bands with friends Steve, Bruce, Joe, Glenn, Tommy, and Bob, and from that point on there was rarely a gathering he didn’t light up. Bill was always the last to leave the party, the one with the ready smile, the booming laugh, and the easy conversation that made strangers feel like old friends.

Professionally, Bill built a successful career as a Walgreens store manager, opening new stores and training others in leadership roles. He was deeply proud when those he mentored surpassed him, wearing their success like a quiet badge of honor. Humble and steady, he later returned to school to earn his BBA in Management — proof that growth never stops. His handshake was his word, and his word was ironclad. He had a rare gift: he made people feel brave, capable, and confident. He saw potential where others saw doubt and lifted people toward it.

Faith anchored his life. Guided by his godparents, Robert and Gloria, he embraced the Catholic Church, receiving First Holy Communion alongside his son Danny — a moment of profound joy; which led to a lifelong commitment in the service of the Knights of Columbus, reaching the rank of a 3rd Degree Brother Knight, leading youth and music ministries and a multitude of retreats. His devotion to the Rosary, the Blessed Mother, and St. Joseph shaped his days, as did daily prayer with his beloved wife. For 49 years they shared friendship and love, 45 of those in marriage. Mornings began with coffee, a kiss, and a song. Evenings found them on the patio, music playing, sometimes dancing under the open sky. Road trips — especially in his beloved sports car, his “retirement gift” — were adventures stitched into family lore. Faith first, family always, music close behind… and cars a happy fourth.

Bill loved history, geography, and a spirited political debate, always looking to the lessons of the past to guide the present. But more than anything, he loved people. His calming love made others steady. His humor made them laugh. His confidence made them brave. His greatest legacy is not only what he built, but who he raised up — a life spent looking outward, asking what others needed, and helping them become their very best.

Bill is lovingly remembered by his wife, Antoinette Holford of Haslet; his daughter, Erin Edland and husband Alexander of Haslet; his sons, Daniel Holford and wife Bethany of Abilene, and Joseph Holford and wife Mia of Porter; his brother, Jack Holford and wife Debbie of Cyprus; his grandchildren, Jack, Luke, and Patrick Edland, Atlas Holford, and Holly Holford; and his brother-in-law, Andy Bourgoin.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Bill to Dementia Friendly Fort Worth, 750 W. 5th Street, FTW 76102.