Frances Eva Blacker

Frances Eva Blacker of Durango, CO passed away on June 13, 2024 at the Mercy Hospice House in Durango, CO. Frances was born on August 13, 1937 in Antonito, CO to Jose Silverio (J.S.) and Maria Bersabe (Mary B) Martinez. As J.S. was employed by the Rio Grande Railroad, Francis spent her childhood in many small towns in Colorado. On April 1, 1955, Frances married Charles Thomas Garcia and they settled in Durango, CO. To this union, six children were born: Elroy, Charlene, PerryLee, Tracy, Jacqueline and Jennifer. Frances enjoyed raising her family and working outside of the home. One of her most meaningful jobs was working for Patricia Jeckel at Elkhorn Ranch where she helped raise Morgan and Shane Jeckel. Another highlight of her career was working for Dr. John F. Reed, President of Fort Lewis College in the 1960’s. Frances also worked and had a passion for being a caregiver to the elderly. Some of her hobbies included playing golf, gardening, cooking, driving through town with the top down on her convertible, and exploring the country with her sisters, Mary and Elva and brother-in-law Larry. 

Frances is survived by siblings, Ernest (Liz) Martinez, Mary McBride and Elva (Larry) Tokarski. Children include Elroy (Marti) Garcia, Charlene (Tony) Martinez, PerryLee (Pandy) Garcia, Tracy Grey, Jacqueline (Don) Brockus and Jennifer Garcia. Grandchildren, Elisha Sisson, Joshua Garcia; Michelle Flom; Matthew Garcia, Adam Garcia; Madeline Smith, Sage Grey; Catlin Garcia, Augusta Hardy, Manasseh Brockus; Nicholaus and Derek Carman. Great Grandchildren include Kaylie and Austin Garcia, Logan Sisson; Isabella and Ahna-Sofia Garcia; Ava and Darion Allen, Charlie Flom; Jaxson and Aedan Smith; Lexus Carman, Zion, Zaye and Ezra Armstrong.

Frances is preceded in death by her parents J.S. and Maria Martinez, siblings George Martinez, Elidia (Lee) Archuleta, Edulia Trujillo, Ophelia Martinez, Ida Garcia, Eliasa Martinez, Gilberto Martinez, and Christobal Martinez. Husbands, Charlie Garcia and Rod Blacker; Daughter-in-law, Patsy Garcia; Granddaughters, Maria Garcia, Emily Garcia and Teresa Garcia.

Frances was most affectionately known as “Granny”. She was the Matriarch of the family and cherished each of her grandkids and great-grandkids beyond measure. Family gatherings at her home provided food, games, many laughs, and much celebration. She especially enjoyed visiting and receiving visits from her extended family, who were always very dear to her. Undoubtedly, Granny’s greatest enjoyment was spending time with her grandkids and great grandkids. She was always there with words of encouragement, a hug or kiss when needed, and unconditional love. She will be remembered, treasured and greatly missed by all.