Francesca "Frances" Brannan, née Montez, passed away on June 13, 2026, at the age of 87. She was born on January 29, 1939, and was raised in the Lordsburg area.

Frances met Theodore "Ted" Brannan at a dance, and in 1962, they eloped to Juarez, Mexico, to be married. Their commitment to one another was later solemnized when they were sealed in the temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Together, Frances and Ted raised nine children and built a large family that became the center of her world. She was a mother to 9, grandmother to 23, and great-grandmother to 36. The family she helped build is one of her greatest accomplishments and a huge part of her legacy.

In their retirement years, Frances and Ted spent much of their time serving others through their church, including volunteering at the LDS food bank and temple. They also shared time outdoors, treasure hunting in the desert with metal detectors and panning for gold.

Frances had a playful spirit, a funny sense of humor, and a way of making people smile. She loved silly jokes and time spent with her family. She especially loved playing Rummy and enjoyed teaching any grandchild who was willing to learn.

She was also known for the traditions she created through Mexican food. Her tortillas, tamales, and the meals she made became part of the memories her children and grandchildren carry with them.

In her later years, Frances was cared for by her husband and daughters, with her eldest daughter, Tee, serving as a steady companion and caregiver until the end.

Frances is survived by her husband, Ted, and their nine children: Tee Montez, Teddie Moreno (Joe), Angel Walker (John), Sandra Rivera, Patricia Jones (Greg Antoine), Brian Brannan (Diana), Theodore Brannan Jr. (Lisa), Dina Brannan, and Jacklyn Jackman (Jessie). She is also survived by 23 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

She was reunited in eternity with her parents, Vicente and Alberta Montez; her brothers, Alfonso Montez and Vicente Montez Jr.; her sisters, Valentina Montez and Mary Young; her great-grandchild, Quincy Brannan; and her daughter-in-law, Ysella Medrano Brannan.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 24th, at 10:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2915 East Idaho Avenue, Las Cruces, New Mexico. A private family viewing will be held. Burial at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens Cemetery immediately after the service.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapel of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to https://www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com