MEXICO CITY, Jan. 11 (Xinhua) -- Mexican writer and poet Andres Henestrosa, whose works focused on indigenous culture and languages, died of pneumonia Thursday, his family said Friday. He was 101.

    Henestrosa died at home in the Mexican capital and would be buried in the city, his daughter said.

    Mexican President Felipe Calderon described him as "a writer who through his poems, narratives and essays promoted an appreciation for indigenous culture and Mexican history."

    Henestrosa, born in southern Oaxaca state, penned a Zapotec-Spanish dictionary in 1936.

    A memorial service was held for Henestrosa Friday in the capital city.