Frances A. Lopez

Frances A Lopez, ‘Pancha’ our beloved mother passed away unexpectedly January 28, 2026 in Plato, MO. Her love was a "safe place", a gentle, steady, and unconditional presence that never wavered. She cared for others, always giving more than she took.

She had the rare ability to make everyone feel valued, understood, and safe. Whether through a comforting word or a listening ear, she was our biggest cheerleader and the "rock" we all leaned on.

She had a "twinkle in her eye" that made time in her company a true delight, reminding us all to find humor in life. Gifted for transforming friends into beloved family members with her warmth and genuine care.

Frances spent early years in Ocate, NM, moved to Taos, NM, married Ruben Lopez and raised a family. In the ninety’s when she moved to Az, she met Jesus Sanchez and raised stepson David Sanchez. Frances became a Pharmacy Tech for Express Scripts for 19 years.

Devout Catholic, member of Catholic Daughter in Ranchos, she continued volunteer work with Friends of the Needy in Gilbert. She lived a life of prayer. Faith was the "anchor" that gave her the strength to encourage us.

Frances is preceded in death by her dad, Claudio Trujillo; step father Orlando Sandoval; sister Bernice (bird) Arneson; and uncle Orlando Trujillo.

She leaves behind a daughter, Annette Garrett (Paul); granddaughter Janet Garrett; her son Ben Lopez, stepson David Jesus Sanchez (Candy); grandchildren Beatrice, David, Miguel, and Olivia Sanchez; mother Celia Sandoval; sisters Louella Medina, Tessie Lopez (Burt) and brother Wilbur Trujillo (Martina).

Celebration for Frances will begin with a rosary, a mass and a meal/reception as follows:

Rosary: Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 6PM at San Francisco de Asís Catholic Church by the Catholic Daughters.

Funeral Mass: Friday, September 4, 2026 at 10AM at San Francisco de Asís Catholic Church with Reception to follow at the Llano Quemado Community Center.

DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. www.devargastaos.com 1-866-657-4019