Frances C. Chapa

Frances Chapa, 96, of Austin, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2025. She was born in Austin on May 11, 1929, and throughout her life, remained deeply connected to the city she called home. Frances was a strong and independent woman, working hard her entire life, balancing multiple careers alongside years of dedicated volunteer service. She built a proud career in retail at Montgomery Wards, where she was known for her professionalism, work ethic, and natural sense of style. Frances had an enduring love of fashion and took great pride in her appearance - always thoughtfully dressed, polished and put together with quiet elegance. She was especially proud of her many years of volunteer service with the Austin Juvenile Detention Center, where she alway spoke fondly of the children she worked with and the respect they showed her. Frances also worked part-time at H-E-B well into her late eighties, a role she enjoyed for social connections and relationships she built with coworkers and customers alike. Frances lived fully and joyfully. Her hobbies included traveling, sewing, cooking, baking, hosting gatherings, dancing, shopping, and spending time with her family and many friends. She loved being surrounded by people and had a gift for bringing others together. Frances was the cherished matriarch of our five-generation family. She is survived by her daughter: Clara Nelson, her three grandsons and spouses: James (Amy), Jason, Rod (Jackie), five great-grandchildren: Roman, Zac, Olivia, River, and Skyler; and three great-great-grandchildren: Londyn, Giovanni, and Gionni. She was married to Louis Chapa for forty-three years before his passing. Frances was the daughter of Isidoro and Josephine Cervantes and was the oldest of her siblings. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family, which included two brothers and four sisters. Frances will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her generosity, and her consistent presence in the lives of those she loved. Her strength, resilience, and spirit were beyond compare. To all who knew her, she was - and always will be - "OUR ROCK"!"

Frances C. Chapa

May 11, 1929 - November 27, 2025