Francisca Marquez
Francisca Marquez, a cherished matriarch, and beacon of love in her community, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2024, in Andrews, TX. Born on October 27, 1938, in Shafter, TX, she was a woman of unwavering faith and boundless affection, whose legacy is marked by devotion to her family, service to her community, and the joy she spread through her warm presence.
Francisca, known affectionately as “Tia Kika” to her adoring nieces and nephews, was the beloved wife of the late Sergio “Sam” Marquez, whom she married on December 29, 1955, in Sanderson, TX. Their love story was one for the ages, and she stood as a pillar of strength and care for Sam when he became bedridden, dedicating over ten years to his care with unyielding commitment and compassion.
She was a loving mother to her three sons, Rick Marquez and his wife Linda of Andrews, TX, Abel Marquez and his wife Kelly Brock of Lubbock, TX, and Ernest Marquez and his wife Vivian of Andrews, TX. Francisca’s heart knew no bounds, and her home was always filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of her famous Rum Cake. Her grandchildren, Blanca, Bailey, Diandra, Devin, Ernie Rey, Lucas, Zachary, Taren, Jessica, and Randi, and great-grandchildren, Maddie, Reyna, Logan, and Charlotte, were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
Francisca is survived by her loving brothers, Abel Fuentez and his wife Flora, and Adan Fuentez and his wife Anita, both of Alpine, TX. She is preceded in death by her dear parents, Celestino and Rosario “Arambula” Fuentez, her husband, Sergio “Sam” Marquez, and her brothers, Celestino Jr. Fuentez, Samuel Fuentez, Ramon Fuentez, and Tomas Fuentez.
Herprofessionallifewas as dedicated and diverse as her personal one. After moving to Andrews in 1976, Francisca worked at Wacker’s Department Store and later served as the custodian at the local hospital and the school district for many years, where her diligence and kindness touched many lives. She was also an astute bookkeeper for her husband’s service station, demonstrating her versatility and unwavering support for her family’s endeavors.
Francisca’s interests and community involvement were a testament to her vibrant spirit and generous heart. She was a long-standing member of the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, where her strong faith was evident in her active participation in the church’s Prayer Group. Her care for others extended beyond her family, as she embraced the role of caregiver with grace and love.
Her beautiful voice was a gift that she shared generously, singing to her grandchildren, relatives, and visitors, leaving a melody of memories that will resonate with all who had the pleasure of hearing her. The echoes of her lullabies and the warmth of her kitchen will be dearly missed by those who were blessed to be part of her life.
Francisca Marquez’s life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and resilience. She was a source of inspiration and comfort, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and all who knew her.
The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Permian Residential Care Center for their compassion, PRMC Hospice for their comfort, and Chris Millian, our mother’s tenderhearted caregiver whose love and companionship provided immeasurable consolation.
Family and friends gathered to celebrate her life at 2:00PM, Friday, May 10, 2024, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Father Ismael Ornelas officiating. She was laid to rest at the Andrews County North Cemetery. A visitation was held from 4:00Pm-6:00PM, Thursday, May 9, 2024, at McNett Funeral Home with a Rosary being held from 7:00PM-9:00PM. Arrangements are under the personal Care of McNett Funeral Home.
