Frances Salazar Guillen, a lifelong resident of the Espanola Valley passed away peacefully Monday, August 31, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Frances was born in El Guache, New Mexico, May 13, 1930. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; Ross and Josephine Salazar; her husband of 72 years, J. Elmer Guillen; brothers Ross Salazar Jr., Regino Salazar, Dennis Salazar; and sister Eva Salazar Ahlborn.

Frances Guillen was a devoted wife and mother of four whose life overflowed with love, faith, and joyful service to her family and community. A fantastic cook known especially for her unforgettable tacos, she brought people together with her warmth and generosity. Frances cherished her grandchildren and great grandchildren deeply, celebrating every milestone and filling their lives with affection, encouragement, and the same steady love she gave her own children. Along with her husband she was a proud Senior Olympics medalist and enthusiastic member of her local bowling league, she embraced life with energy and spirit. Her faith was central to her life, reflected in her service to the Altar and Rosary Society. Crowned her high school’s homecoming queen, Frances carried that grace and kindness throughout her life. She worked for many years as a cashier at her brother Reggie’s grocery store in her querido El Guache, greeting everyone with the friendly smile she was known for. Frances leaves behind a legacy of love, quiet strength, grace, and treasured memories. May her spirit continue to shine in the hearts of all who loved her. The family kindly requests that each of you continue acts of kindness in her memory.

Frances is survived by her children; JoAnn Korski and husband Edward of Surprise, Arizona, Joseph E. Guillen Jr., and wife Cathy of Espanola, James Ivan Guillen and partner Kim Gonzales of La Mesilla; and Nadine Louise Guillen of Albuquerque, grandchildren; Keith Korski and wife Amanda, Kevin Korski, Carlos Guillen and husband Chris Conboy, Chris Guillen and wife Ana Patino Guillen, Katrina Guillen-Mills and husband Steven Mills and Mario Guillen; great-grandchildren; Nicolas Guillen; Isabella Guillen and Sofia Guillen; brother David Salazar; and numerous nephews, nieces, relatives and friends that loved her dearly.

Public visitation will begin on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at 5:00 pm, in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home, with a Rosary to be recited at 6:00 pm. 

Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 10:00 am, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Santa Cruz, NM, with burial to follow at the Holy Cross Cemetery. 

The following will serve as honorary Pallbearers; all her grandchildren and great grandchildren, nephews Kenny Salazar and Pancho Galvez; and niece Rose Ellen Guillen.

The family of Frances Salazar Guillen has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley. 505-747-7477