José Francisco Guerra, whom I called Francisco and those who knew him as a child called Paco, passed away suddenly on January 4, 2021, when he collapsed in his cell in San Quentin State Prison in California.  He had spent the last 30 years of his life incarcerated on Death Row for a crime he did not commit.  He leaves behind his beloved wife, three children, and grandchildren, all of whom are in shock at his unexpected death. 

Francisco was born and raised in Valle de Dolores, a small rural village in Guatemala.  Many of his family and friends still live in and just outside Valle de Dolores, including the aunt and uncle who raised him, and many others are buried in the cemetery there. It his family's wish that Francisco return to Guatemala for proper memorial and burial surrounded by family and friends, after having spent half his life separated from them due to the injustice of the United States criminal legal system.  

Attorneys who have represented Francisco are administering this GoFundMe to enable his family to bring Francisco home.  The costs to do so safely and quickly are exorbitant, particularly during the pandemic. All money raised will be used to transport Francisco’s body from California to Guatemala, and to pay for the memorial and funeral. Time is of the essence in raising these funds.

Francisco was a loving man of strong values, integrity, and great pride.  Throughout his long incarceration, he maintained regular phone and mail correspondence with his family, celebrating with them from afar every milestone and accomplishment as his children grew and started families of their own. When his attorneys visited him, he wore the state-issued blues that he received over 20 years ago, made of better-quality material than the prison provides today.  He told his attorneys he had to be strict with his diet and exercise to ensure these clothes continued to fit so he could dress respectfully for our visits.  He inquired after our family members and was concerned about our own well-being. He ended each visit with me with a bear hug – drawing strength from my belief in his innocence and understanding of his worth, and giving me strength to continue the fight.

The photo accompanying this Fund is of Francisco in Valle de Dolores with his son, who is now an adult with a son of his own.  It was taken just before Francisco traveled to the United States years ago to obtain work to support his family in Guatemala.

Paula Fog, the designated recipient of the fund, is in close contact (and proximity) with Francisco's wife and son and is submitting all funds donated directly to them.