Francis Kay Valdez, 71, of Del Norte, Colorado, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026, and is now in the loving presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, surrounded by the love and memories she shared with so many throughout her life. Born on March 22, 1955, in La Jara, Colorado, Francis was the cherished daughter of J. Luis Valdez and Sylvia Martinez Valdez, and the beloved twin sister of Ernestine Winchester, with whom she shared a lifelong and unbreakable bond.
Francis lived a life defined by compassion, dedication, and quiet strength. She devoted the majority of her
professional life to working as a medical technologist, serving in the medical field with skill, precision, and a deep sense of care for others. Her work was more than a career—it was a reflection of her giving nature and her desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. She took great pride in earning her bachelor’s degree, valuing education as both a personal achievement and a foundation for her life’s work.
Outside of her profession, Francis found joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments. She loved attending craft fairs, where her creativity and appreciation for handmade artistry shone. Her kitchen was often filled with the comforting aroma of baked goods, which she lovingly shared with family and friends. She found peace and happiness in the mountains she held so dear, frequently taking in their beauty and serenity. Fishing was another pastime she treasured, offering her moments of quiet reflection and connection with nature.
Above all else, Francis was deeply devoted to her family. She carried a gentle spirit, a caring heart, and a steady presence that brought comfort to those around her. She is survived by her sister, Vivian Mondragon, and her brother-in-law, Larry Winchester. She leaves behind her cherished nieces, Melissa Dominguez (John Dominguez) and their daughter Emma Dominguez, and Heather Valdez; as well as her nephews Gregory Mondragon (Crystal Mondragon) and their son Tiago Mondragon, Brian Mondragon (Jakeia Stallworth), Justin Winchester, Jason Winchester, and Jarrett Winchester (Mila Gonzales) and their children Kota Winchester and Keanu Winchester. Francis also held a special place in the hearts of many dear friends, whose lives were enriched by her kindness and warmth.
She was preceded in death by her beloved twin sister, Ernestine Winchester; her brother, Michael Valdez ( Shirley Valdez); her brother-in-law, Gilbert Mondragon; and her parents, J. Luis Valdez and Sylvia Martinez Valdez. The loss of her twin sister was one she carried deeply, and it is a comfort to know they are now reunited.
Francis will be remembered for her gentle soul, her unwavering love for her family, and the compassion she extended so freely to others. She had a way of making people feel cared for, valued, and at ease—a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Inurnment will be held at a later date with a private, immediate family service. No public services will be held in accordance with her wishes.
To leave online condolences, please visit romerofuneralhomes.com
The care of arrangements has been entrusted to Romero Valley Funeral Home of Alamosa.
In loving memory of Francis Kay Valdez, forever in our hearts.
