Richardo "Richard" Sanchez

Richard was born on September 1, 1951, in Killeen, Texas, to Richard and Virginia Sanchez. As the oldest son, he shared a close bond with his brother and sisters and carried a deep love for his family throughout his life.

Growing up in Killeen, Richard excelled in school and athletics, playing football, basketball, and baseball. While attending Killeen High School, he met his high school sweetheart, Corina, beginning a love story that would span more than five decades. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and service, sharing more than 53 years of marriage.

The discipline, determination, and sense of purpose that shaped Richard's early years naturally led him to a life of service. Following high school, he joined the United States Air Force, where he proudly served as an aviation mechanic. Richard combined his natural talent and strong work ethic with a commitment to excellence. After 20 years of dedicated service, he retired as a Master Sergeant.

After retiring from the Air Force, Richard continued his career as an aviation mechanic with American Airlines for 18 years and remained active, later working alongside Corina at Kinderplatz of Fine Arts, lending his talents as a handyman to help maintain and improve the school.

Richard was a devoted Christian and faithful member of Crowley United Methodist Church since 1992. He served for many years on the Board of Trustees, the Finance Committee, supported Sprit Moves, and generously gave his time caring for and maintaining the church property. He never sought recognition for his service; helping others was simply part of who he was. If something needed to be done, Richard quietly stepped in and made sure it was taken care of.

Richard was immensely proud of his daughters and warmly welcomed the sons-in-law who became cherished members of the family. His grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy, and some of his happiest moments were

those spent with them. One of the special blessings of his final chapter was having the opportunity to meet and love his great-granddaughter. Being able to see four generations of his family together was one of life's greatest blessings and a reflection of the love and legacy he built.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Corina Sanchez; daughters Leah Vasquez (Cesar Vasquez) and Andi Schulz (Patrick Schulz); grandchildren, Austin Sigur, MacKenzie Redfield (Jackson Redfield), Gavin Schulz, and Devin Schulz; great-granddaughter, Josephine Redfield; brother, Felix Sanchez (Marcella), sisters Marylou Shelton (Jeff ) and Sharon Sanchez and many beloved niece and nephews.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Sanchez and Virginia Sanchez; his sisters, Francis Watkins and Linda Webb.

While his family will miss him dearly, they find comfort in the faith that guided his life and in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Richard's legacy of kindness, humility, and devotion will live on through his wife, children, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, and all whose lives were blessed by his love and example.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

2 Timothy 4:7

Celebration of Life to be held on August 29, 2026

Crowley United Methodist Church

509 West Peach Street, Crowley Texas 76036

Fellowship Hour 10:00 – 10:45 am

Celebration of Life Service 11:00 am

Burial to be held on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 9:30 am at the DFW National Cemetery in Dallas

(For those that would like to attend please be at the Laurel Land Funeral Home at 8:10 to proceed)

In lieu of flowers the family request memorials be given to

Crowley United Methodist Church

(Outreach or Building Fund)

509 Peach Street, Crowley, Texas 76036