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Runyon’s to Celebrate Life of Longtime Employee Jeffrey Allan Francis

by Ryan Yousefi January 10, 2024

by Ryan Yousefi January 10, 2024 2 minutes read

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Runyon's to Celebrate Life of Longtime Employee Jeffrey Allan Francis

Jeffrey Francis. {Runyon’s}

By Ryan Yousefi

One of Coral Springs’s oldest restaurants is set to honor the life of a longtime employee and customer favorite who recently passed away.

Jeffrey Allan Francis, a longtime bartender and cherished member of the Runyon’s of Coral Springs family, passed away at 67 on January 2, the restaurant announced on Facebook this past week.

Jeffrey Francis. {Falowski Kalis Mcintee Funeral & Cremation Services}

Runyon’s has announced a celebration of Jeff’s life at their Coral Springs location on Sunday, January 14, from 1:00 p.m. until 4 p.m. The event promises to be a heartfelt tribute to a man who was much more than a bartender – but a friend, a mentor, and a key pillar in the establishment’s success.

In the announcement of his death, Runyons made clear that Jeff was more than just an employee; he was a family member with close ties to the community.

“Jeff poured the first cocktail ever served at our bar. Over the next 30-plus years, he became the most knowledgeable bar manager in South Florida. He studied wines and every new spirit until he could answer any questions that any guest or fellow employee could possibly ask.

He became the purchasing agent for anything and everything with Runyon’s bar service. He remembered your name and your drink. He remembered where you were from.

Jeff was a huge reason for the popularity and success of Runyons, and he will be forever remembered and dearly missed.”

According to an obituary written in his honor, Jeff’s bartending career began in 1979, and his flair and dedication eventually led him to Runyon’s, a place he would call his second home for 34 years.

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Author Profile

Ryan Yousefi

Ryan Yousefi has lived in Coral Springs for over 30 years. He has worked as a writer for multiple outlets over the years, including the Miami New Times where he has covered sports and culture since 2013. He holds a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in Business Healthcare Management from Western Governors University.