Carmela was born and raised in Michoacán, Mexico, where she met and married her husband, Celestino. Their time together was cut tragically short when he was taken from her far too soon. With courage and determination, Carmela later immigrated to the United States, where she planted new roots and began building a legacy that continues through her family today.
Carmela was a remarkable woman whose presence filled every room and whose heart touched countless lives. An extrovert in the truest sense, she knew everyone, spoke to anyone, and never met a stranger. Her humor, warmth, and openness made people feel seen, welcomed, and loved.
She was a pillar of strength for her family—the foundation on which generations stood. Through unwavering faith and perseverance, Carmela helped her family come to America, opening doors to opportunity and hope. Her love knew no limits. She guided her family with prayer, wisdom, and fierce devotion.
A woman deeply rooted in faith, Carmela prayed for everyone—family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers. Her wisdom was shaped by life experience, tradition, and Holy Spirit. Known for her remedies and home cures, she always seemed to know what to do, what to make, or what to say to bring comfort and healing to both body and soul.
Mornings were sacred to her—coffee in hand, pan dulce on the table, ready to greet the day. She expressed love through food, finding joy in cooking for others and bringing people together around her table. She also found peace in her garden, tending to her plants with the same care she gave to her loved ones.
Carmela adored her dogs and palomas, treating them as family. They were her loyal companions and a source of daily joy. Strong minded and unapologetically herself, she believed in tough love—always honest, always firm, yet always rooted in deep care and a desire to see others grow.
Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped, the prayers she whispered, the meals she lovingly prepared, and the lessons she passed down. She leaves behind a family strengthened by her example and a community forever touched by her kindness, wisdom, and love.
Carmela is survived by her children: Celestino Madriz Sanchez, Blanca Esmeralda Sanchez, and Luis Fernando Sanchez; her siblings Balbina Sanchez, Angela Sanchez, and Vicente Sanchez; as well as 10 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Celestino Madriz; her son, Armando Sanchez; her daughter, Raquel Sanchez; her siblings Maria Sanchez, Reyna Sanchez, Cleofas Sanchez, Jesus Sanchez, and Luis Sanchez; and her parents, Luis and Teodora Sanchez.
