Francisca Leon Quinones
April 1, 1940 — June 16, 2024
Francisca Quiñones León, born on April 1, 1940, in Santa Isabel del Resbalón, Durango, Mexico, began life embraced by her grandparents, Salvador Quinones and Maria de Jesus Villa, whom she lovingly called “Papa Salvador” and simply “Mama” (later known to her grandchildren as Abuelita Jesucita). They raised her alongside their own children, three boys who nicknamed her "Quica". She was known for her feisty spirit, outspoken nature, and fearlessness, always defending her older brother when needed.
Early in life, Francisca became a mother herself, choosing a path of sacrificial love and family support. She thrived in commerce, opening her own "tiendita" in her small town, El Rancho. Despite her success, when her brothers Pedro and Maclovio moved to the United States, she relocated to Tijuana to be closer to them.
Years later, she migrated to the United States and arranged for her children to live with her. She took on various jobs, from packing and sorting to working at Sears, to provide for her large family.
Francisca had nine children: Beatriz, Rebecca, Ricardo, Adriana, Paco, Victor, Patricia, Veronica, and David. Despite financial challenges, she worked miracles with food and resources at home, showcasing her talent as an excellent cook who could turn ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals, from Picadillo to the "American" enchiladas made with El Pato sauce, cheese, and tortillas. Christmas in her household was always a joyous affair with plentiful food and many gifts, a testament to her generosity and love.
Although she lacked formal education, Francisca was incredibly intelligent and resourceful. She wasn't perfect, but she was loyal, courageous, passionate, and diligent in all she did, driven by her deep love for her family. While some of her children believed she had her “favorites”, she never admitted to such sentiments. She leaves behind a legacy of nine children, 24 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.
In her later years, as her health declined, Francisca's vibrant, outgoing, and witty personality gave way to a quieter demeanor. Our hearts are heavy in not having her around, but we find comfort knowing that she is no longer in pain. We thank God; she is no longer suffering.
As we mourn our beloved Mother, we hold onto the hope of reuniting with her, our dear brother David, our nephew Joshua, and cherished Abuelita Jesucita in heaven one day.
Condolences may be sent to the family through our website.
Early in life, Francisca became a mother herself, choosing a path of sacrificial love and family support. She thrived in commerce, opening her own "tiendita" in her small town, El Rancho. Despite her success, when her brothers Pedro and Maclovio moved to the United States, she relocated to Tijuana to be closer to them.
Years later, she migrated to the United States and arranged for her children to live with her. She took on various jobs, from packing and sorting to working at Sears, to provide for her large family.
Francisca had nine children: Beatriz, Rebecca, Ricardo, Adriana, Paco, Victor, Patricia, Veronica, and David. Despite financial challenges, she worked miracles with food and resources at home, showcasing her talent as an excellent cook who could turn ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals, from Picadillo to the "American" enchiladas made with El Pato sauce, cheese, and tortillas. Christmas in her household was always a joyous affair with plentiful food and many gifts, a testament to her generosity and love.
Although she lacked formal education, Francisca was incredibly intelligent and resourceful. She wasn't perfect, but she was loyal, courageous, passionate, and diligent in all she did, driven by her deep love for her family. While some of her children believed she had her “favorites”, she never admitted to such sentiments. She leaves behind a legacy of nine children, 24 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.
In her later years, as her health declined, Francisca's vibrant, outgoing, and witty personality gave way to a quieter demeanor. Our hearts are heavy in not having her around, but we find comfort knowing that she is no longer in pain. We thank God; she is no longer suffering.
As we mourn our beloved Mother, we hold onto the hope of reuniting with her, our dear brother David, our nephew Joshua, and cherished Abuelita Jesucita in heaven one day.
Condolences may be sent to the family through our website.
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