Mary Lou Barragan Sanchez

Mary Lou Barragan Sanchez, a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother and faithful servant of her community, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on November 20, 1930, in San Antonio, Texas, Mary was the daughter of Benita Ruble and a woman of unwavering strength, kindness, and dedication.

Mary married her high school sweetheart, Rudolph "Rudy" Sanchez, and together they shared 52 beautiful years of marriage before his passing in 2002. Their love story was one of adventure, family, and devotion. They cherished traveling to California, New York, Las Vegas, Hawaii, and on cruises to Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, Cozumel, Cancun, and Alaska. Family camping trips, fishing along the Texas Gulf Coast, and joyful picnics at Brackenridge Park created lifelong memories.

Mary lived a life shaped by resilience, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to her family. As a young girl, she weathered the hardships of the Great Depression, began high school during World War II, and witnessed history unfold—from the rise of television to mankind’s first steps on the moon and beyond. She carried the lessons of those times with quiet fortitude, proving that even in the face of adversity, grace and perseverance could light the way forward.

A proud 1949 graduate of Burbank High School, Mary maintained lifelong friendships with Marie Patino and Mary Lou Gutierrez. She dedicated over 30 years to Lackland AFB’s Payroll Department, supporting military families with care and diligence. She earned her degree from San Antonio College and was an active member of Toastmasters, showcasing her commitment to growth and service. Mary cherished her monthly Bunco gatherings at the Commanders House, where she shared laughter, friendly competition, and delicious lunches with her dear friends. Those moments of joy and camaraderie meant so much to her, and she always looked forward to the fun and fellowship they brought.

After retiring, Mary worked alongside Rudy managing rental properties, a testament to her strong work ethic. She took pride in her achievements, including earning medals in walking events and remaining a devoted member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church, where she found solace in hymns and fellowship.

Mary is survived by her children: Rudy Sanchez Jr. (Rebecca), Lorraine Blancarte (Ralph), Carol Salas (Tim), Richard Sanchez (Rosie), and Roland Sanchez (Mary Rose); her grandchildren: Veronica and Jason Leos, Stefan (Abby) Blancarte, Christopher Sanchez (Trisha) and Lauren Sanchez; and her great-grandchildren: Sabian, Celeste, Madison, Marissa, Brooke, Olivia, Christine, and Lily. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Benita Ruble, and great-granddaughter Elysia Leos. She also leaves behind her brother, Augustin Barragan, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Mary’s legacy of love, faith, and resilience will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Her kindness was a light that will never dim, and her love will guide us always.

Rest in eternal peace, Mary Lou.

A visitation for Mary will be held Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Porter Loring Mortuary, McCullough, 1101 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212, with a rosary to follow at 7:00 P.M. A mass will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 9:00 AM at St. Ann's Catholic Church, 210 St. Ann Street, San Antonio, TX 78201. A committal will follow in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209.