Mom Frances, RIP

Gene's mom, Frances M. Castillo, 94 years young, passed away yesterday.  She had a stroke last Saturday and her last hours were peaceful  with family nearby.

This photo is from the Magdalena Old Timers when she was Queen, 1986/7.  She worked with her hands doing everything from sewing/tailor to remodeling her house.  She was always busy, always.  She was an artist and repainted all the statues in the Mary Magdalene Church in Magdalena.  Gene's father, Jesus, died in 1964 and Frances took care of her young children and worked many jobs, including teachers aide for many years in Magdalena.  She spent her last 4 years in assisted living in Albuquerque where she was very active until last week!

You can read more about her on Joanna's page and see another beautiful photo.  I did a birthday post to her here.

Mom Frances was the complete opposite of the mother-in-law that you read about in comics.  She was very loving to me and took up for me. We had many fun times painting, making puzzles and cooking.

I cannot imagine all the changes she saw in her life.  She leaves a huge family of 9 children, 35 or so grandchildren, etc....... Joanna has an estimate on her page.  She was just as beautiful yesterday as always.  We will miss her dearly.  Love you, Mom.