It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of the center of our family, Francie Hays, who passed away on August 17, 2024, at the age of 79. Francie is now reunited with her parents, Val and Constance Galindo, and three of her siblings (Evelyn Burroughs, Connie Galindo, and Michael Galindo).
Growing up in Dixon, Francie participated in many activities at Dixon High School, where she cheered on the sidelines, twirled as a majorette, played a variety of sports, and played the clarinet in the school band. After high school, Francie spent a short time at Monterey Peninsula College but decided to come back home to attend Cosmetology School, keeping close to her family and the place she loved. One of Francie’s early jobs was as a hairstylist at the Betty Ann Shop, where she quickly became familiar with many of Dixon’s long-time residents, making her someone who truly never met a stranger.
Francie married and began a new chapter in Hopland, where she dedicated herself to raising her three beloved children, John, Val, and James. In Hopland, surrounded by the beauty of the mountains and the close-knit Hopland Field Station Community, Francie grew a network of lifelong friends and worked at Hopland Elementary School, immersing herself in her children's world.
In the early 80s, Francie returned to Dixon as a single parent, guided by her deep-rooted connection to her family. She continued to build her network, working at Farmer’s Insurance and forming friendships that remained a cornerstone of her life. Later, Francie followed her heart back to the Mendocino Coast, where she became a beloved figure in Albion and Manchester, working at Manchester Elementary School and actively contributing to her community for about 10 years.
Eventually, Francie’s life came full circle, returning to Dixon to be close to her children’s growing families. She devoted 20 years to her career as a Paraprofessional in Special Education at Anderson Elementary School, where she found deep satisfaction in helping children develop their reading and math skills. Though she was dedicated to her work, her greatest joy was her family. Francie’s love and support of her family was unwavering; she never missed an opportunity to cheer on her grandchildren at their countless sports (baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball, track, volleyball) and 4-H and FFA events, always willing to put everything aside to be there for them. Francie shared a unique bond with each of her grandchildren, making every one of them feel cherished and valued.
Francie is survived by her children: John (Megan) Hays, Val (Dennis) Froman, and James (Deanna) Hays; her grandchildren: Cody (Taylor) Hays, Kyle Froman, Tyler Hays, Jacob Froman, Tanner Hays, Ruger Hays, and Logan Hays; her great-granddaughter, Aubrey Hays and great-grandson (Francie eagerly anticipated the arrival of her second great grandbaby in February of 2025) James Froman; her brother, Tom (Joy) Galindo; her sister, Anne (Steve) Kleeberger; and numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. Her countless lessons of putting family first, and her daily presence, with boundless support and endless encouragement, leaves a void that will be greatly missed.
A Celebration of Life will be held on September 6, 2024 at the Olde Vets Hall in Dixon from 12 to 4 p.m. A private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.
