Onofre Sanchez

I’m Onofre Sanchez, 88, of Gallina, New Mexico, passed away on March 24, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Onofre was a woman of deep faith, integrity, and an unyielding work ethic. She was a devoted prayer warrior with a heart full of love for God, her family and friends. Family gatherings were especially dear to her, and she cherished the moments when everyone could come together. Her bond with her children, grandchildren, siblings, and countless friends was one of great love and understanding. As the matriarch of her family, Onofre was the steady presence we all knew was always praying for us.

She had a strong passion for attending church, reading her Bible, and living in Gallina. Onofre also enjoyed supporting Coronado Leopard sporting events and traveling with her family on vacation. Her work life was marked by dedication, spending many years as a bus driver, foster grandparent in the classroom, cook, custodian, and Upward Bound chaperone at Jemez Mountain Public Schools. She also took great joy in sewing, weaving, and growing calabacitas and flowers. A highlight of Onofre's life was the simple yet meaningful task of gathering, splitting, and stacking wood in preparation for winter, a true reflection of her strength and resilience. She will be remembered for her unwavering love, faith, and the countless lives she touched.

Onofre is preceded in death by her husband Liberato (Lee) Sanchez; infant son Lee Jr., infant daughter Judy; grandchildren Samantha Martinez, Christopher Martinez, T.J. and Kenneth Sanchez, parents Samuel Cordova and Rosana Martinez Cordova; brothers: Jose, Alfonso, Mardoqueo, Daniel and Sammy Cordova; sister: Bernadette Gonzales: sons-in-law: Isaac F. Trujillo and Jerry Martinez.

She is survived by her children: Lydia, Joann (Eloy), Norma, Ruby, and Tomas (Kellie). Grandchildren: Eloycito (Melanie), Deanna (Frankie), Suzzette (Juan), Julianna (Xavier), Isaac, JJ (RaeLynn), Shawn, Miguel, and Janae; 24 great-grandchildren and 14 great-great grandchildren. Siblings: Victoria Lovato, Josefa Martinez, Mary Madrid, Nanci Livingston, Emma Cordova, Gloria Hockenhull, and Bobby Cordova: special friend Agnes Suazo, as well as many other special family members and friends.

A public visitation will take place on Sunday March 30, 2025, at 5:00 pm at Victory Faith Church in Espanola followed by a Devotional Service at 6:00 pm. A funeral service will take place on Monday March 31, 2025, at 11:30 am at the Christian Faith Fellowship in Gallina followed by a burial at the Sanchez family plot in Gallina. 

Pallbearers: Izaiah Martinez, Miguel Sanchez, Jonathyn Montoya, Christopher Martinez, Nathaniel Martinez, Xavier Garcia

Honorary Pallbearers: All her grandchildren and Pastor Samuel Arellano

The family of Onofre Sanchez has entrusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home of the Española Valley. 505-747-7477.