Susie Riojas Sanchez

Born on Christmas day in 1937, to Juanita and Alfonso Riojas in San Antonio, she lived her life to the fullest, focusing on family and faith.

While attending Edgewood High School in the mid-1950s, Susie learned about the importance of commitment and responsibility. She thoroughly enjoyed being part of the high school choir, travelling to places as far as Mexico to perform. Cheerleading, pep squad, and student counsel proved to be exciting as well as enjoyable to her. Along with these extracurriculars she held two jobs; one at Alexander’s, a downtown jewelry store, and the other at Earl Abel’s restaurant. After graduating from high school, Susie attended college while working at USAA. There she met lifelong friends, creating wonderful memories she’d share with her children.

In 1960 she married the love of her life, Eddie Sanchez, embarking on a faith filled journey of partnership and parenthood. Their family blossomed with the arrival of their first child in 1963, and Susie, ever the matriarch, raised six children with grace and boundless love. Her devotion to family only strengthened her resolve, and in 1984, amidst the joys of motherhood, Susie completed her undergraduate degree and stepped into the role of an elementary school teacher with the San Antonio Independent School District, working at the same school, David Crockett Elementary, for eighteen years. Susie loved teaching. She had unwavering patience for her students, encouraging and helping them to aim high. During her tenure she achieved her Master’s degree in Education from Texas A & I, and after eighteen years of dedication and commitment she retired.

Susie’s 18 years of teaching are a testament to her work ethic and commitment to excellence. Her influence impacted young minds as many of her previous students closely kept in contact with her, sharing their remarkable stories with gratefulness and adoration.A woman of strength and selflessness, Susie endured the challenges of terminal cancer, with dignity and courage, and remained a source of unwavering support and inspiration to her family and friends.

Susie leaves behind a legacy of love and education, survived by her husband, Eddie; her children, Yolanda Dalmolin (Marc), Cecilia Porter, Robert Sanchez (Imelda), Leticia Sanchez (Renee), and Veronica Lopez (Jaime); her brothers, Larry Riojas, and Paul Riojas (Connie); along with 16 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Preceding her in death were her daughter, Theresa Sanchez Rodriguez; her parents; and her siblings, Luis, Alfonso, Aurora, and Rose.

As we reflect on the life of Susie Sanchez, we smile with pride knowing how many hearts and lives she touched. She will be dearly missed and forever celebrated but her spiritual faith in God, love, and wisdom will continue to guide us.

The family would like to thank the Doctors and staff at The Start Center for Cancer Care, particularly Dr. Gladys Rodriguez, and Dr. Ronald Drengler.

The family will be accepting visitors from friends and family on Thursday, January 9, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 P.M. at Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2102 North Loop 1604 East.

ROSARYTHURSDAY, JANUARY 9, 20257:00 P.M.PORTER LORING MORTUARY NORTH2102 NORTH LOOP 1604 EAST

FUNERAL SERVICEFRIDAY, JANUARY 10, 202510:00 A.M.ST. MATTHEWS CATHOLIC CHURCH10703 WURZBACH ROAD

Interment to follow at San Fernando II.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.