Edward French Obituary

Edward A. French

10/25/45 - 07/16/17

Edward A. French died unexpectedly Sunday 7/16/17, in San Francisco, California at the age of 71. He is survived by his sisters Claudette Davis, Lorraine French, Yolanda Smith, brother Dennis French and beloved companion Brian Higginbotham. He had several nieces and nephews who loved him deeply. The family will never allow him to leave them – too much love for him and his beautiful spirit. He cherished being a part of all they had to offer and was a great teacher to them. His love for life, family, friends and The City showed in all he did throughout his life.
He loved and was dedicated to the film industry, friends and colleagues. They were his "extended family". He was a self-taught and accomplished Film Location Manager, who had a keen eye for capturing the obvious, as well as the hidden, beauty of San Francisco and its surrounding areas. He was a mentor and teacher to a generation of Film Scouts, and has left behind a creative legacy of combining "analytics with art" that will continue within the San Francisco film industry.
He will be missed by all who were touched by his smile, friendship and generosity.
Born and raised in San Francisco, he died viewing the City he knew and loved completely. He was "San Francisco". When you look to the City skyline – he will be there smiling with his camera.
A "Celebration of His Life" will be scheduled in the near future. Any donations should be directed to a charity of your choice in his name Edward A. French.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jul. 27 to Jul. 30, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Edward French

10 Entries

Dana Augustine

April 23, 2021

Ed French was a wondrous human being ...

He was one of my mentors as a Location Scout / Location Manager in the 1980's in the San Francisco Bay Area and Ed -- simply being Ed, was a fair & decent man and knew his job inside and out.

He taught me much and got me many gigs scouting or managing. I will be forever indebted to his memory that made me not only a better filmmaker ... but a better man.

His ironic wit and urbane, stylish ways are legend.

Rest easy, good Ed French as you were ... you ARE, immortal to we many you knew and worked with, myself included.

I pray you have found bliss and redemption in the next part of your journey in the river of souls you now swim within ...

... as you so truly and deservedly earned it.

Much love, my amigo and most excellent mentor.

Dana Augustine

john desmond

September 3, 2017

I met Ed about 20 years ago; I was a gardener in Golden Gate Park as he was scouting for a photo shoot. Both of us are native San Franciscans we soon found out and had a lot to talk about growing up in the city. I lost contact about 3 years ago but recently ran into him; same Ed, working traveling to shoots, always keeping busy, youthful disposition and personality. Ed LOVED life, I am glad to have known someone like him. John

Sergio Hernandez

August 3, 2017

My sympathies and best wishes to Ed's family and friends. I knew Ed in the early 70s. He was a sweet and charming man.

August 2, 2017

The other day while having a lengthy conversation with the Big Guy upstairs, He mentioned that His production department was losing it's touch on some of the videos and films they were supposed to be composing. They seemed to lack the richness and beauty of visuals that needed to project the grandness of the story line. He needed something or someone to help set the production staff back on the right track.

I said I knew a fellow that I felt could fit the bill. He was sought after and worked for many big name companies and film producers. He had the knack of getting just that right scene and location for many heavy duty productions.

What's his name? the Big Guy asked. Edward French, I replied. But we all call him Ed. He's smart, charming and funny. I think the two of you would be perfect for each other.

So one day, the Big Guy called on Ed and the two made a great contract like those made in Heaven. Ed's now working hard and producing grand and glorious locations for his new boss and production company. If we watch closely in the sunsets and sunrises we'll be able to see the beauty and grandeur of Ed's work. It will be playing for an eternity.

We'll be watching, Ed. I know your spectacular work and generous heart. We may miss you physically, but know you spirit will always be near. Love you, Jim R.

John and Laura Bennett

July 30, 2017

Sending love to your family. Ed brought us so much joy and laughter while working together.

Beautiful soul

Lorraine French

July 29, 2017

My dear Bro - you have left this space but will never leave my heart and soul. I love you Bro. I miss you so much. Not sure where to go without you. Your sis, Lorraine

July 29, 2017

You always gave a smile to all for over 35 years. You will be missed Ed. Cheers to you!