Francis Arellano

Submitted by Beth Love

Francis Arellano (1923-2011)

COLORADO CITY Francis Arellano, 87, quietly passed away surrounded by family and knowing she was going home to the Lord, former Midland, TX resident, Francis Arellano, died Feb. 16, 2011, at Mitchell County Hospital in Colorado City, TX.

Funeral Service will be Friday, Feb. 18, 2011 at 10 a.m. at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Colorado City with Father Michael Udegbunam officiating. Rosary was held at 7 p.m. at Kiker-Seale Chapel on Thursday, Feb. 17, 2011.

Francis Arellano was born April 4, 1923, in Rotan, TX, to Cosme and Julia Echavarria. She married Canuto Arellano Sr. on Feb. 11, 1940, for 71 years until his death on May 31, 1996. Ama as family members lovingly knew her, was mainly a housewife and took very loving care of the family. While in Colorado City, she loved spending time and taking care of the family, farm and garden. While in Midland, she enjoyed shopping at her favorite plant nursery. She was a very devoted member of both St. Ann's Catholic Church in Colorado City and Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Midland, TX.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Canuto Arellano Sr. and sons Ruben Arellano and Roberto Arellano and grandson Ruben Arellano.

She was the loving mother of son Juan Arellano and wife Connie of Odessa, TX, son Canuto Arellano Jr. and wife Priscilla of Midland, TX, daughter Carolina Arellano of Colorado City, TX, daughter Linda Ramirez and husband Lorenzo of Midland, TX, daughter Mary Helen Sanchez of Colorado City, TX, son Manuel Arellano and wife Rhonda of Midland, TX, and son Rick Arellano and wife Michelle of Midland, TX, She also leaves behind 26 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren and adopted son, Jimmy Martinez.

Ama was a devoted mother and grandmother. She was a loving and caring woman who devoted her life to God. Our mother never complained and always thought of others before herself. Our mother was our first and greatest love. She will always be with us and be within her children.

I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give you isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid. John 14:27…

All arrangements are under the care and direction of Kiker-Seale Funeral Home.

Published in Odessa American on February 18, 2011