In the splendor of a life well-lived and love freely given, we gather in a spirit of heartfelt celebration to honor the memory of Maria Francisca Espericueta, lovingly known to all as Frances. Born in the small town of Weslaco, Texas, on June 25, 1957, Frances passed away unexpectedly on August 25, 2024, in Bakersfield, California.

The sixth born in a family of nine, she grew up in the farm fields between Texas and Shafter, where life was hard and days were long. Raised in a migrant farm labor family, she was molded by the land into a vessel of beauty and resilience. Tough as the earth, strong as an ox, creative, and always in motion—she was the buzz of the Espericueta family.

As a wife, she was the embodiment of Proverbs 31, spreading the joy of Christ throughout her 48 years of marriage. To her beloved LeRoy, she was more than a partner—she was his Honey, the sweetness in his life. As a diligent worker bee, LeRoy dutifully toiled for his Honey, knowing her sugar made everything worthwhile.

As a mother to five thriving children, Eli, Beatris, Leia, Priscilla, and Lucas—and an Abuelita to eight cherished souls—Chloe (22), Elijah (20), Sophia (16), Xavier (13), Sloan (5), Samson (5), Luke (5), and Benaiah (3)— she was the queen bee that oversaw and expanded their minds and hearts, teaching them the way of love and service.

As a sibling, her joyful buzz spread smiles as they all buzzed in sync. She was her most silly and fun self when gathered with her beloved brothers and sisters from her original hive. When together, they set a wonderful example of how siblings should love, cherish and enjoy each other's company.

As a homemaker, her kitchen was her hive, where she crafted the most delightful dishes. From her savory turkey tamales (renowned throughout Kern County) to the love that infused every meal, each creation was a testament to her warmth and skill. She was the steadfast sustenance of Espericueta Farms, the honey that provided energy for the hard work, fueling the efforts that built and sustained her family.

Her faith, grounded in the Bible, bore good fruit that sweetened her life and those around her. A volunteer and pillar of her church and community, she served others before herself, her hands and heart always seeking someone to help.

Though her time here on earth has ended, her sweetness remains, leaving a lasting legacy of love, faith, and service. Her memory will linger like the taste of honey, a gentle reminder of a life lived with purpose and love.

Survived by her devoted husband of 48 years, LeRoy, her children, and her grandchildren, Frances's spirit will forever be the sweetness in their lives, the honey that binds them together.

The wake will be held at Valley Bible Church in Shafter on Thursday, August 29, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The funeral service will follow on Friday, August 30, at 10:00 AM, also at Valley Bible Church.