Frances S. Chavez

We are sad to announce the passing of Frances S. Chavez of Cuba, NM on September 23, 2022. Frances passed away in her home surrounded by her loved ones at the age of 82. 

Frances was born on August 5, 1940, in Gallina, NM to Jose Ignacio Arellano and Antonia Maria Maestas Arellano.  Frances graduated in 1960 from Cuba High School in Cuba, NM and was the first Homecoming Queen in school history.  She married Leo Chavez on May 27, 1961, in Abiquiu, NM and they shared 61 loving years as husband and wife. 

Frances was preceded in death by her parents, Jose Ignacio Arellano, Antonia Maria Maestas-Arellano, siblings Carlota Valdez, Leon Arellano, Domitila “Tillie” Arellano, and Elias Arellano.  

She is survived by her loving husband Leo Chavez from Cuba, NM;  her sons Ron Chavez (Shirley) from Española, NM, Randy Chavez (Kathy) from Albuquerque, NM, and her daughters Amie Aguilar (Daniel) from El Prado, NM and Carol Chavez from Cuba, NM; her grandchildren Desiree Chavez (Tim), Joshua Chavez, Daniel Esteban Aguilar, Jaron Chavez, Ariana Aguilar, and Christopher Cavazos; great-grandchildren Estrella Tena and Abigail Herrera; her God children, Leona Gaylen Aguilar, Audrey Aragon, Manuelito Arellano, John Salaz, Harold Arellano, Benito Chavez, and numerous relatives and friends.   

Frances was a dedicated mother, devoted grandmother, and loving friend.  Frances was a homemaker and spent her days caring for her family and later in life enjoyed doting on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Frances was a devout Catholic, was a member of the Spanish choir at Immaculate Conception Church, read her bible daily with her husband, and enjoyed praying the rosary daily.  Her welcoming presence and kindness will be missed by all who knew her.