Frances was my mentor and friend from 2007-2016 at ITC.  I will continue to be a docent in spinning and weaving when ITC re-opens at a future location. 
Frances taught me everything I know in Spinning and Weaving.  She was so knowledgeable on every aspect of spinning, knitting, crocheting, and weaving the cotton, wool, mohair fiber she had spun.   Many of her traditions I have carried on, such as making friendship bracelets out of brightly colored wool with the children. 
I have a watercolor portrait I painted of Frances in 2015 at her spinning wheel carding. If any family member would like it, please let me know.  Please respond by commenting to this condolence.
Virginia Lukefahr, Docent in Spinning and Weaving at ITC.

I was so sadden to read that Frances had passed away. She taught my daughter in Sunday School at Travis Park UMC probably 30 years ago. I also worked for the library system with her for years. We always enjoyed seeing her at ITC.

We first met Ms. Frances at the Central Library where my now-teenage daughter delighted in story time. We'd return home inspired, and with an armful of books to hold us over until the next week. Years later Frances touched our lives again, when our daughter was given the opportunity to learn from and work beside her as a docent at ITC. She remembers most fondly how Frances was conversant in so many areas. "She was an amazing person. Anything I'd bring up to talk about, she'd have something interesting to discuss." A lifetime of learning and teaching to inspire us all!

Frances was my sister-in-law. I always looked forward to family gatherings to hear about her latest interest from puppets to genealogy. I also admired the gentle, loving care she gave her own mother in her last days. I know she received the same from her children.
Jenny Mohundro

The Lord has called upon my favorite spinning and weaving friend.
Frances thank you for your friendship and hugs.. you will truly be missed but never forgotten..

Miss Frances could capture the attention and delight of all our visitors at the Institute of Texan Cultures.  It was always such a joy to see the kids who were on field trips lean in to see better or even rise to their knees to get a closer view of what she was showing them. Many hearts are weeping that she is no longer with us. We miss you, Miss Frances. The world is a more dim place without you. 
.

We miss you.   Oh, how the children loved you.  Your smile was so beautiful.

OMG HOW I WILL MISS SEEING MRS. FRANCES ON SATURDAY WHEN I WORKED THE POST OFFICE SHE ALWAYS JOKED WITH ME ABOUT THE MAIL AND STAMPS NOT BEING IN. SHE IS ONE "LADY" I WILL MISS. GOD BLESSINGS TO FAMILY.SHE WAS A BEAUTIFUL FLOWER. .

I worked on the Exhibit Floor of The Institute of Texan Cultures this busy Sunday afternoon.  It's hard to wrap my mind around the fact that just a couple of Sundays ago, Frances was on full duty, whirring away with her spinning wheel and making magic happen with the visitors.  Today Spinning and Weaving was so empty without you, Frances.  All of us at ITC miss you so much!  That small body of yours held a great spirit that cast a giant shadow.  From your excellent work with the ITC Outreach Program to the expansion of your ITC interests, you used your gifts to the fullest.  RIP Frances.  Well done, good and faithful servant.

Frances my friend.  You always made my day when I showed up to work.  I know you enjoy taking some time off from your spinning to watch some funny cats videos. I will miss those times together but our fun times will never be forgotten.

Ms Francis so inspired my granddaughter, Eleanor, each time she came to visit ITC.  While Eleanor is just starting middle school, she has made a commitment to become a docent, too, some day.  I know Ms Francis is among the weaving angels in heaven. We will miss her, too.   Birdie

My name is Kevin Wilson and I work security at the Institute of Texan Cultures where Frances volunteered her services as a docent. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family at this very difficult time. I shared many days talking to her face to face while she worked and I must say she was quite a lady. Not many people leave an impact on me but she did in many ways than one. I can honestly say even though I know she is in a better place the candle has gotten dimmer in this world without her. Frances, God speed to you and even though your not here in person your spirit will forever be with us.

Frances was a veritable fixture at  ITC, and a delight to all.  She had a special knack for capturing the attention of young and old guests, and  was a  master at her spinning skill.  She will surely be missed.  Bob Byrn, Docent

Frances was a very smart and lovable woman who was an angel here on earth who charmed people of all ethnic cultures, ages and genders. Now may she rest in peace in Gods glory for ever and ever. "GOD BLESS." PSO Kenneth Coleman (ITC)

I will miss the "Kid Whisperer" at ITC greatly. Her spinning tales were magic with our student guests. Condolences to her family.
Doug Kelly, Docent

I met Frances in the early '80s at McCreless Library, & have known her since at the Institute of Texan Cultures.  She was a wonderful, talented, & cheerful lady & we will miss her greatly.  My condolences to you all.

We will miss Frances.  She was a very special docent at the Institute of Texan Cultures.  Frances shared her skills with a smile.  Children and adults enjoyed her demonstration of spinning and weaving.  Luz & Ed Day

OBITUARY

Frances Eileen Rios

August 18, 1927 – May 25, 2016

Sunset Memorial Park & Funeral Home

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