Francisca Lugo

1927 - 2025

Francisca Dodier Lugo passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025, in Austin, Texas, at the age of 98. Born in Joyce, Texas, the oldest of nine children, she learned early the values of responsibility, service, and love that shaped her life.
Francisca lived a life filled with faith, service to others, adventure, travel, laughter, and love. A devoted mother, cherished family member, loyal friend, and gifted educator, her influence reached far beyond the classroom.
After years as a telephone operator with AT&T, Francisca pursued higher education, earning a BA from Pan American University and an MA and Doctorate in Education from Eastern New Mexico University. She taught elementary school in Texas, Illinois, and New Mexico, earning Teacher of the Year honors in 1975 and recognition for outstanding leadership in 1976. A lifelong member of Phi Delta Kappa, she was listed in Who's Who Among Human Service Professionals.
In retirement, Francisca volunteered for more than 20 years through engAGE Travis County, serving hospitals, schools, and community organizations. An avid international.
traveler, birdwatcher, reader, and crossword puzzle lover, she delighted in nature, art, and time with her dogs.
Francisca is preceded in death by her parents, Antonio and Andrea Dodier; her sisters – Dora, Antonia, Isabel, and Bertha; and her brother – Antonio. She is survived by her son, Fred; sister, Guadalupe; brothers, Oscar, and Elihu; and numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews who will continue to carry her legacy forward.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 3rd, at 10 a.m. at the Harrell Funeral Home, 4435 Frontier Trail, Austin, TX, 78745. No flowers please.
If people wish to donate to honor Francisca's memory, please consider donating to either Meals on Wheels Central Texas at https://www.mealsonwheelscentraltexas.org, or engAGE Travis County Board at https://engagetraviscounty.org/donate/.