Earl Francis Sanchez, 72, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, with his children by his side holding his hands. After a courageous battle with multiple myeloma and complications from treatment, he spent his final days under the compassionate care of Green Mountain Hospice, where he was treated with dignity, comfort, and grace.
Born in El Paso, Texas, to Amparo Duran and David Juan Sanchez, Earl was the second oldest of six children. His family later settled in Santa Maria, California, where he attended St. Joseph High School before earning his Bachelor of Science degree from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
The son of two educators, Earl dedicated the second half of his life to education. He began a career teaching high school science and mathematics before serving as a vice principal. His influence extended far beyond the classroom, shaping the lives of countless students, colleagues, family members, and friends through his guidance, encouragement, and example.
Earl found joy in simple pleasures and meaningful pursuits. He loved fishing and passed that passion on to his children, who became experts at baiting hooks, casting lines, and cleaning fish - skills they may not use much today, but lessons they still carry with them. He also cherished time spent around horses and felt a special connection to them. Many of his favorite photographs captured him in the saddle, enjoying the bond between rider and horse. An avid sportsman, Earl was also a talented amateur golfer and introduced his children to tennis, enthusiastically supporting them in every activity they pursued, whether on a field, a court, or a stage.
Above all else, Earl’s greatest pride was his children and family. His devotion to them was matched only by his deep faith and commitment to the Catholic Church. He was a member of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, an honor he held close to his heart. As an active member of St. Matthew Catholic Church, he regularly walked the ten-mile round trip to attend services. He shared his faith openly, offered help freely, and lived a life centered on service to others. He will be remembered as a man of unwavering faith, generosity, and devotion.
Earl is survived by his children: Andrew Sanchez (Brianna) and their daughters Aliyana and Kyah; Dennis Sanchez (Brian); Jeremy Gutierrez (Danielle); and Cynthia Sanchez (Truman). He is also survived by his siblings David Sanchez, Cynthia Lavers, Patricia Koivisto, Dennis Sanchez, and Andrew Sanchez. He was preceded in death by his parents, David Juan Sanchez and Amparo Duran Sanchez.
A Rosary will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Martin Funeral Home, 128 N. Resler Drive, El Paso, Texas, followed by visitation with family until 8:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 400 W. Sunset Road, El Paso, Texas. Burial will follow at 10:30 a.m. at Memorial Pines Cemetery, 3061 Memorial Pines Road, Sunland Park, New Mexico. Earl’s children will be hosting a reception for their father at 920 Tyler Seth Ave., El Paso, TX from 12-4pm.
