Frances G. Mata

She is the beloved Mother to son, Victor of Bryan, TX; daughters, Maria Baker of Houston, TX, Virginia Marches of Houston, TX, and Rebecca (Becky) Gray of San Antonio, TX. Frances is also survived by her sisters, Mary Lopez, and Eva Santillan; grandchildren, Frank Baker Jr., Brent Marches, Anthony Mata, and Angie Mata-Johnson; great grand-children, Ava, Amelia, Michael, Nicholas, Aaden, Emmarie, Isabella (Izzy), embraced CJ, and Avante. She is preceded in death by her husband, Victor; daughter, Gloria Mata; sisters, Lillie Gonzalez, and Louisa Camacho; brother, Manuel Salgado.

Frances was born May 11, 1922, in Wichita Falls, TX. She met Victor in Houston, and they were married on May 23, 1939, in Richmond, TX. Together they raised a healthy family of 5, with extended family thrown in from time to time. Frances’ pride and joy was her family. As an adult, after her children were pretty much grown, she earned her high school equivalency, learned to type, and swim. She worked over 30 years in retail, and retired from K-Mart. But that wasn’t enough, after retiring she continued to work at Cloth World (predecessor to JoAnn Fabrics and Crafts).

Frances was best known for her cooking and sewing ability. Everyone who knew her was the recipient of many lovely crocheted and handmade gifts. Late in life, she learned how to quilt, and her family and close friends proudly showcase lovely quilts, table cloths, napkins, and so much more in their homes. Everyone looked forward to her homemade tortillas, hot sauce, enchiladas, and of course annual tamales.

Her daughters loved having a complete wardrobe and any needed special uniforms, costumes, and prom dresses. She even made Becky’s wedding suit. Frances was also a world traveler. She loved her trips to Hawaii and even expressed a recent desire to plan another trip to Oahu, HI.

Tears aside, the family is firm that Frances lived a full and rich life. A Christian woman, she leaves this world better.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 16, 2016, at Heights Funeral Home, 1317 Heights Blvd. Service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, November 17, 2016 at the Heights Funeral Home Chapel. Internment will follow at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery, 6900 Lawndale St, Houston, TX 77023

Expressions of condolences may be mailed to the family c/o Virginia Marches, 6007 DeLange, Houston, Texas 77092.

Arrangements under the direction of Heights Funeral Home, Houston, TX.