Sara Lopez-Garcia, lovingly known to many as “Momma Sara” or “Nana,” passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, at the age of 74. She was born on December 28, 1951, in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, and later made her home in Salina, Kansas.

Sara was a strong and independent woman who faced life’s challenges with resilience and grace. She worked tirelessly to provide for her children, always putting her family before herself. Her greatest joy in life was her family, especially her grandchildren. She had a nurturing spirit that naturally drew people to her, and many affectionately adopted her as their own “Nana.” Sara loved dancing, listening to music, and spending time surrounded by the people she loved most. Her Christian faith remained an important foundation throughout her life and carried her through both joyful and difficult times.

Those who knew Sara will remember her beautiful heart, her strength, and her laughter. Her love was unconditional, and her presence was unforgettable. Though her family’s hearts are deeply broken, they find comfort in knowing her legacy of love, strength, and compassion will continue through the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her children, Jose J. Franco, Rosie Sickler, Gabriela Lucio (Jesus Lucio), Sara Franco (Luis Meza), Claudia V. Franco, and Ana Ingram. She is also survived by her brother, Jehu Lopez of Mexico; her sisters, Ana Romo and Patricia Rogers; along with 22 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, extended family members, and countless friends.

Sara was preceded in death by her father, Jesus Lopez; her birth mother, Gloria Garcia; the mother who raised her, Rosario Gonzalez; her husband, Arturo Isabel Franco Prado; her son, Arturo Franco; her granddaughter, Hannah Franco; and her great-grandson, JJ Arias.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 20, from 4-8 p.m., and Thursday, May 21, from 5-9 p.m., at Ryan Mortuary, 137 N 8th St, Salina. The funeral service will be held on Friday, May 22, at 9 a.m., at Ryan Mortuary, with burial to follow at Gypsum Hill Cemetery, Salina.