Arturo Fabiano Sánchez

An excellent student from a young age, he attended La Escuela Amigos in Holguin for his early education. He went to Havana to advance his studies. He graduated from the University of Havana with a doctorate in jurisprudence.

After returning to Holguin, in order to practice law, he met the love of his life, Divina Perez Ynchaurtieta, on a blind date. They were engaged within three days and married 6 months later. With great joy they celebrated the arrival of their son, Arturo, Jr. Surrounded by their extended families and enjoying the initial years of their marriage, life was good. Yet change was coming. Arturo’s life was up ended when his country fell to the turmoil of communism. His profession was no longer necessary. He and his wife and young son, Arturo Jr. left their homeland in exile to the United States.

With gratitude for their safety and hope of a new beginning, Arturo and Divina were guided by the tenet they always say: “No one can take away from you, your faith and your education.” Arturo studiously learned English with no prior background. He proceeded to earn a Master’s degree in Spanish, and another Master’s in Education from University of Missouri – Kansas City. Later he would go on to complete a PhD. in Spanish Literature from Missouri University - Columbia. Utilizing his ability to adapt, he became a high school teacher, and then a college professor. He added a part-time job as a travel agent.

A new opportunity in the 80’s brought him to Houston. He became the Director of Public Relations for KLAT La Tremenda- 1010 AM, where he produced the weekday program, “La Voz del Pueblo”. His linguistic expertise, interviewing skills and ability to genuinely connect with others made him well known in the Houston community. He went on to join KXYZ, Radio 13- 1320 AM before “retiring” and creating his own family business, “Arturo Sánchez and Associates”. He worked as a judicial interpreter, trained with H&R Block and did taxes. He and his associates translated documents, scripts and performed Spanish language voice overs. In his retirement years, he was confirmed in the Catholic Faith and joined the NeoCatecumanate Way of Notre Dame Catholic Church, his parish for 43 years.

Arturo and Divina led an exemplary marriage for 56 years, until Divina passed away in 2013. Their union demonstrates the importance of love and support through life’s joys and sorrows, always appreciating God’s gift of the presence of one another.

He leaves behind his children: Arturo and Martha Sánchez, Lourdes and Ralph Stranahan, and his grandchildren, Christina and Sam Schmalzreid, and Teresa Stranahan. Arturo’s many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, godchildren, his NeoCatecumanate community, and dear friends all brought him great joy throughout his life. The family extends gratitude to all those many people who loved and supported Arturo throughout his life. Thank you so very much. A special thank you to “La Lourdes” Corado for her exceptional, loving care during Arturo’s later years.

A visitation will be held at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home, located at 12555 South Kirkwood, Stafford, TX 77477, on February 2, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A prayer service will take place at the same location from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Casa Cuba, The Institute of Hispanic Culture- Houston, Notre Dame Catholic Church, Baker- Ripley House or any educational organization in his memory.

The funeral service will take place at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 7720 Boone Rd, Houston, TX 77072, on February 3, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A committal service will be held at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077, on February 3, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm.