Francisca G. Wawroski

“I have fought the good fight; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. Now waiting for me is the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day—and not only to me, but to all those who have eagerly longed for his appearance.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8

Into the loving and tender arms of our beloved Mother Mary, our beloved Francisca Gamboa Wawroski, entered that promise of salvation and eternal rejoicing, on the Feast Day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, which also was the 11th Anniversary of the death of her beloved husband of 41 years of marriage, Master Chief Petty Officer Francis L. Wawroski Jr. Frances wouldn’t have had it any other way than to enter the gates of heaven the same day that her companion and devoted husband was also welcomed into his eternal reward.

A product of a strong and faithful family, Frances was educated at the Ursuline Academy, where she graduated in the mid-1960’s, and immediately went on to pursue her career goals. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from Texas State University (formerly Southwest Texas State) in 1970. During her career, ever the continual learner, Frances earned her Master of Science Degree in Education from Laredo State University. She began her education career in the early 1970’s with the Laredo Independent School District, having been assigned to several campuses such as LJ Christen Middle School, Martin High School, Cigarroa Middle School, as well as the LISD Central Office. Her public-school service lasted 30 years. Unlike many of her retired educator friends, our beloved Frances couldn’t stop giving of her talent and expertise in the field of education, that she continued for another 20 years, now with the private school sector at St. Augustine High School, where she lovingly returned to where it all began, the old Ursuline Campus (now St. Augustine High School). Frances believed that everyone had the right to equal education, no matter the background or socio-economic status. She was a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Honor Teacher Organization, leading the local Alpha Nu Chapter as President 2014-2016. Frances was active in many civic organizations, such as the Princess Pocahontas Council, Alethea Talent Society, Damas de la Cultura de Oro, and her most cherished civic organization, the Laredo Commission for Women, to which she was appointed twice.

A loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, educator and friend to many, Frances leaves behind many cherished memories as well as countless success stories of those students that once walked those hallways or sat in her classroom. A true and loyal educator until her last days, we rejoice in knowing that she completed God’s will on this earth and will forever rejoice in the new and eternal Jerusalem. Rest in peace dear Frances.

Frances is preceded in death by her beloved, Master Chief Petty Officer, Francis L. Wawroski Jr.; parents: Manuel and Francisca Gamboa; in-laws: Francis L. and Dora Wawroski Sr.; sister-in-law: Sandra M. Wawroski.

Left behind to cherish her memory are her daughters: Judith (John) Wawroski-Addison, Valerie (Rolando) Wawroski-Rodriguez, and Dr. Patricia (Raul) Wawroski-Mendoza. She was blessed with her adored grandchildren that were her pride and joy, Jacqueline Frances Addison, Olivia Marie Rodriguez, Layla Marie Rodriguez, Audrey Madison Mendoza, Leon Sebastian Mendoza; brother-in-law: John (Connie) Wawroski, as well as by numerous close friends.

Visitation for Frances will take place on Monday, July 21, 2025, from 5 pm to 9 pm at Hillside Funerals and Cremations; 310 W. Hillside Rd., Laredo, TX 78041, where a Vigil for the Deceased and Rosary will be offered by Rev. Deacon Mr. Roger Martinez Jr.

The funeral procession will depart the funeral chapel at 8:30 am on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, to Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Leszek J. Waclawik at 10 am.

The Rite of Committal and Interment will take place at 10 am on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, Shelter #1, where she will be laid to rest with her beloved Francis, together at last. Those attending are asked to arrive between 9:40-9:55 am for an on-time start.

You may extend your condolences to the family during the scheduled services, or, if you so wish, you extend them virtually on her obituary, which can be found at: www.hillsidefuneral.com

Funeral arrangements have been placed under the guidance and direction of Manuel de Jesus Osorio, Managing Director, Hillside Funerals and Cremations; 310 W. Hillside Rd.; Laredo, TX 78041; 956.724.6060