Thomas Vidal Sanchez

Tommy lived a full life with carefree days. His favorite hobby was golf, before his shoulders decided they weren’t going to move that way anymore, and he loved entertaining his family and friends with food and games- always having the BBQ pit going and a net set-up for volleyball. Tommy spent most of his years being a diesel mechanic, becoming skilled and often teaching new hires, even his nephews, methods to fix engines for ships. On sunny days, Tommy could be found outside soaking up the rays with his dog; his favorites was Reefer (RIP), Woody (RIP) and Pinto.

Tommy attended church regularly at St. Frances Cabrini and he tried to shape his life to mimic the love of Jesus. He always said hello to strangers and made everyone feel welcome whether he knew them or not.

Tommy is proceeded in death by his father, Henry Sanchez, mother, Helen Vidal Sanchez, Marta “Marty”, and sister-in-law Nancy Sanchez. He is survived by his: wife, Odelia “Lilly”; brother-in-law- Jacob; sister-in-law’s- Oralia Garza and Laura; Marty’s children; brothers- Henry “Pinky” (Karen), James “Jimmy”, Robert “Bobby” (Gay), and Gilbert (Hilda); nieces and nephews- Trey, Michelle (Joey), Michael, Marc, Toni, Tammy, Angela (Glen), Robert (Amy), Russell, Kellee (John), and Kortney (Jason); cousins, great-nieces/nephews, and many friends.

He will be remembered by his dazzling smile and bright eyes, always ready with a sarcastic joke and welcoming arms. Vaya con Dios Tommy, it’s time for you to rest.

An inurnment service for Thomas will be held Wednesday, May 29, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX 77023.