Dannette Gonzales-Francis

Dannette Gonzales-Francis, beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, sister-in-law, and aunt passed away on Saturday, May 13, 2023, surrounded by family. Dannette was born in Espanola, NM on November 8, 1959 to amazing parents, Leroy and Dorothy Gonzales of Rodarte, New Mexico.

She was preceded in death by by her father Leroy Gonzales Sr.; brothers, Leroy Gonzales Jr, Daniel Gonzales, and Gabriel Gonzales; nephew, Jonathan Gonzales; grandparents, Richard and Libradita Gonzales, Ben and Fabiola Dominguez; Uncles, Jacob and Jimmy King and Daniel Dominguez.

Dannette was a graduate of Penasco High School. After high-school she attended Luna Community College and the University of New Mexico. She then began her career working for the State of New Mexico, later worked for Congressman Bill Redmond, and with Los Alamos National Laboratory. She was a hard working and committed individual and both enjoyed and excelled in her professional work environment.

Dannette is best described by those who knew her as “a beautiful soul.” She was a stylish, vibrant, and resilient woman. She wore her beautiful smile with her always. She had an accepting nature and made all those around her feel valued and special.

She lived life on her own terms and encouraged her daughters to do the same. She had a remarkable ability to overcome adversity and took great pride in raising two strong and independent women - an accomplishment made possible because she, herself, was a strong and independent woman.

She loved her family faithfully and the greatest joy in her life was being a grandmother. Her love and dedication for her grandchildren, Zac and Kristen, was unparalleled. 

She is survived by her mother, Dorothy K. Gonzales; daughters, Danielle and Gabrielle Gonzales; grandson, Zachary Saiz; granddaughter, Kristen Lopez; sister and brother-in-law, Loretta and Abie Lopez; sisters-in-law, Albenita Gonzales and LouAnn Cordova; god-daughter, Erica Lopez; nieces and nephews, Erica Montano (Matthew), Kimberly Lopez, Lynette Rodriguez (Samuel), Amber Martinez (Matthew), Micheal Gonzales, Matthew Gonzales (Sheryl), Karen Tucker (Dustin), Jennifer James (Jordan); 20 great nieces and nephews; and numerous other relatives and friends. She also leaves behind her loyal pup, Gizzy.

The family would like to express gratitude and extend a special thank you to Monica Valdez and all the nursing staff from Giving for providing such quality and gentle care for Dannette over the last three years. 

A public viewing will take place at 5:30 pm, followed by a service of Christian celebration at 6:00 pm. at DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory, 623 N.Railroad Avenue, Espanola NM 87532, on Monday, May 22, 2023. A private burial and reception will be held at a future date.

The family of Dannette Gonzales-Francis have entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Espanola Valley. (505)747-7477, devargasfuneral.com