Armandina Franco Death & Obituary: Armandina (Mandy) Franco, age 68, of Garden City, Kansas, and formerly of Ulysses, Kansas, passed away on Monday, August 5, 2024, at St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City. Born on January 10, 1956, in Lubbock, Texas, Mandy was the daughter of Armando and Aurora (Sanchez) Franco. Her life was a testament to faith, family, and the joy of music.
Early Years and Community Involvement
Mandy grew up in Garden City and Lubbock, graduating high school in 1974. At just 12 years old, she showcased her musical talent by becoming the pianist at the Calvary Temple Assembly of God Church in Garden City. Her passion for music followed her throughout her life, as she not only played the piano but also possessed an extraordinary singing voice.
After graduation, Mandy returned to Ulysses, where she worked at Moody’s Engine for 21 years as their secretary and bookkeeper. She also held positions at Franco Brothers and retired from the Grant County Senior Center in 2021. Mandy was a founding member of the Lakin Assembly of God Church in 1979, where she shared her love of music and worship with her community.
A Loving Family Member
Family meant the world to Mandy. Known for her generosity in the kitchen, she often cooked for her loved ones and cherished every moment spent with her nieces and nephews. Aunt Mandy had a special way of staying connected, frequently sending her family a verse of the day and creating lasting memories through her warmth and kindness. As a prayer warrior and devoted worshipper, she was a source of strength and love for those around her.
Mandy’s musical talents extended beyond her church, as she played and sang at numerous funerals and community events, leaving a lasting impact on the Ulysses community. In 1995, she and her brothers recorded a gospel album, a testament to their shared love for music and faith.
Survived by Loved Ones
Mandy is survived by her siblings: Pastor Rafael Franco and wife Ludi of Lakin, Mike Franco of Ulysses, Homer Franco and wife Mavi of Ulysses, Olivia Salsedo of Garden City, and Eddie Franco and wife Jean of Ulysses. She is also survived by sisters-in-law Enedelia Franco of Monett, Missouri, and Delaine Franco of Hugoton, as well as brother-in-law Jeff Fowler of Ulysses. Mandy was a loving godmother to five, including Veronica Franco, Abram Sanchez, Mason Franco, Crystal De La Paz, and Alexxi Gonzalez. Numerous nieces and nephews will miss her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Armando and Aurora Franco; brothers, Santos Franco and Pastor Israel Franco; sister, Elida Fowler; and brother-in-law, Felix Salsedo.
Honoring Her Memory
Mandy’s life will be celebrated with a funeral service on Friday, August 9, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Oasis Church in Ulysses, officiated by Pastor Rafael Franco. Interment will follow at the Ulysses Cemetery. Visitation will take place on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 11:00 AM until 3:00 PM at Garnand Funeral Home in Ulysses and from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Lakin Assembly of God Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lakin Assembly of God Church in care of Garnand Funeral Home, located at 405 W. Grant Ave., Ulysses, KS 67880. Condolences may be shared online at Garnand Funeral Homes.
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Conclusion
Armandina (Mandy) Franco’s life was a beautiful symphony of faith, family, and music. Her unwavering devotion to her loved ones and her community, along with her exceptional musical talents, made her a cherished figure in the lives of many. As we remember Mandy, we celebrate the joy and love she brought into the world, ensuring her legacy of kindness and devotion will continue to inspire future generations.