MaryJean Sanchez

It's with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our family's matriarch, our guiding light, MaryJean Sanchez. She was surrounded by loved ones when she passed peacefully in her home on Monday, September 4, 2023.

Born in Estancia, NM on November 2, 1935 to Pablo and Alice Saiz, she enjoyed her childhood surrounded by her siblings and extended family.

She met her future husband, Raymond, as a young lady and following their marriage they moved to San Diego where he served in the Navy and they started their family.

Upon their return to Albuquerque, she and Raymond expanded their family and she began an impressive career at First National Bank. Starting her employment in an entry level position, her unmatched work ethic was quickly recognized. She climbed the ranks rapidly and eventually achieved the prestigious position of a Vice President who led one of the most critical departments in the bank. She managed multiple highly sensitive financial transactions on a daily basis and was a highly respected member of the banking community.

In all she did, MaryJean gave of herself completely. She encouraged all those she knew to strive to do their best, she guided friends and family through difficult life events, and she celebrated many milestones with all of us. She exuded an unmatched level of commitment, energy and devotion to those she knew and loved.

And her cooking--oh my goodness! She was known for endlessly sharing the food she prepared, especially her fresh tortillas! MaryJean brought family and friends together to share delicious meals, and we all looked forward to her gatherings on Christmas Eve where we enjoyed her homemade posole and tamales.

MaryJean is survived by her husband of 69 years, Raymond Sanchez; daughters, Patricia Sanchez (husband Robert Young), Cynthia Knott (Cindy), and Mary Elizabeth Sanchez (Liz); sons, Ron Sanchez (wife Lydia) and Don Sanchez (wife Dianna); and Maureen Janeluwicz, her great friend. Her daughter, Birdie, preceded her in death at a young age.

She shared beautiful, unique relationships with all of her grandchildren who adored their abuela, JeanJean. Later in her life she learned how to text so that she could stay in close contact with them their way, often times making for some colorful auto-corrected conversations! Her grandchildren are Corri Brickey (husband Tony) Patrick Sanchez (wife Samantha), Adam Sanchez (wife Jamie), Brian Sanchez (wife Nikki Rowell), Lucas Sanchez, Michael Sanchez (husband Stevey Gurule), and Kristin Sanchez (fiancé Gianni Bellini); and her many great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored; siblings, Marie Todd and Leo Saiz; and deceased siblings, Ernie Saiz, Lucy Joiner, Alvino Saiz, Charles Saiz, and Albert Saiz.

Throughout her life she built and cherished many beautiful relationships with her nieces, nephews, extended family and close friends.

MaryJean led a life well lived. She was a woman of faith, ever giving, generous, vibrant, and strong. She believed in the people she loved and provided unwavering encouragement always. Her passing will leave a tremendous void in all those who were blessed to know her. May time lessen the pain of loss and may our many fond memories of her always remain.

A Rosary will be recited Monday, September 11, 2023, 11:30 a.m., at St. Charles Borromeo Church, 1818 Coal Pl. SE. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park, 924 Menaul Blvd. NE.