Jesus Sanchez

Jesus Sanchez was called home to the Lord on August 6, 2025. He was born in Presidio, Texas on June 17,1937 to Maria and Juan Sanchez. He was raised in Fort Stockton, Texas, traveled the world in his Air Force career, and ultimately retired in San Antonio, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 11 brothers and sisters, and his oldest son, Jesus Orlando Sanchez. He is survived by his wife, Janie; son, Joel David Sanchez and his wife, Josie; daughters, Gloria Elisa Sanchez and Mari Sanchez Grazulis and her husband, Robert; 10 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

Jesus was also known as “Jesse” by most, “Chuchi” by family, and “DoDo” by his grandson, Michael. He often retold memories of growing up in a small, west Texas town, in a family of 14 sharing 1 bathroom in a tiny home filled with the love of his “Ama y Apa.” He told countless stories of escapades as a kid, like when he was chased by a javelina, pulled on girls’ pony tails, or the time when he camped out far away with friends when he was 10 years old and his family didn’t know where he was. He enjoyed telling about playing the French Horn in the high school marching band, and what it was like working as a “soda jerk” at Taylor’s Cafe. At 11 years old, he learned to work alongside his brothers and sisters. He picked cotton, shined shoes, washed dishes, ran errands, anything he could to help contribute to the household. He loved his family but left Fort Stockton the day after his high school graduation in hopes of finding adventure. With barely a plan or money in his pocket, at 18 years of age, he set out by bus to find more of what life had to offer in the big city of Dallas. He settled into pursuing an education in Television and Radio Repair when 17 year old, Janie Regina Macias, walked into his life. Literally, he met her while she was walking with friends. He saw her, introduced himself, and his world was forever changed. She brought him peace and comfort while he gave her fun and adventure. Thinking about a future with her, Jesus decided joining the United States Air Force was far more stable than fixing radios and television sets. They married two years later and together they raised a family of four children while living their military adventures in Massachusetts, New Mexico, Kansas, Texas, Korea, Goose Bay Labrador, and twice in Spain. He enjoyed his career in the Air Force and retired as a Master Sergeant in 1980 after serving his country for 21 years. He continued to serve for 20 more years as a civil servant at Brooks Air Force Base and Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. Through it all, he was loved and honored by Janie who stayed by his side all the way to the end, holding his hand as his wife for 68 years. His last words before he died was telling her that he loved her.

Jesus was a good man, loved by his family and friends. He spent his days keeping up with current events, reading about politics, watching the Texas Rangers play baseball, and listening to his favorite Country and Tejano music stations. He enjoyed working in his yard and home. He never wanted to sit still and always found ways to keep busy. His family remembers the delicious barbecues in his backyard, the gatherings he loved so much that were filled with fun, laughter, and his silly, homemade board games. His daughter remains sad that he really did take his fajita and barbecue sauce recipes to the grave as he joked about so long ago. He loved spending time in his garage where he crafted many carpentry projects for his home and family. In his younger years he enjoyed golfing, bowling, fishing, and especially driving his favorite old, green, classic Chevy Truck. He enjoyed his first cup of coffee in the mornings with his grandson, Michael, and spent many days entertaining him by making colorful hats and ties to wear. He had a passion for writing stories, drawing pictures, painting rocks, anything creative, and his grandkids would tell you he loved to share those moments and talents especially with them. His children remember him supporting them and cheering in the stands during their sports and school events, and how he always encouraged them to do well in school and pursue higher education. He loved his children and they are humbled by his hard work and sacrifices so they would grow up wanting for nothing and having everything they needed to prosper well in life. They will always remember the love he had for their mom, Janie. While they are sad in letting him go, they know he has a new body in Heaven, reunited with those who left before him, and is now with our Lord and savior, Jesus Christ. He will forever be missed and thought of often.

Visitation/Viewing of Jesus will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025 between 4:00-7:00pm located at Colonial Funeral Home on 625 Kitty Hawk Road, Universal City, Tx 78148.

A Graveside Service will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 10:30am in Shelter #3 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery located on 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, Texas 78209.