Margarita "Margie" Esther Sanchez, passed away peacefully at her residence in Dixon, New Mexico on June 23, 2026, surrounded by those who loved her most. Born on September 3, 1947, in Embudo, New Mexico, she touched many lives over her 78 years with her warmth, strength, and kindness.

Margie’s life was defined by a deep devotion to her family, a steadfast faith, and a joyful spirit that uplifted everyone around her. She dedicated herself to caring for others as a caregiver for El Mirador for many years, and later as a housekeeper at the Ohkay Casino—where fate introduced her to the love of her life, Roberto "Bobby" Martinez. Her loving nature extended beyond her professional life into everything she did.

Margie was a devoted mother and grandmother, whose proudest accomplishments were always her children and grandchildren. She is survived by her daughter, Carrie Griego (Randy), and her son, Leo Sanchez. Her cherished grandchildren, Vanessa, Leorrie (Eric), Anjanette (Michael), Donald Jr. (Brianna), Leo (Marilyn), Maegen (Zac), and Matthew (Alyssa), continue to hold her memory close. Her great-grandchildren—Jeremiah, Dominic, Kenalee, Noah, London, Lilith, Kaylee, Alex Paul, Liam, and Eric—will forever carry her stories and songs in their hearts.

Her caring presence and generosity reached far beyond her immediate family. She leaves behind loving friends Sandra Gurule and Evelyn, and the companionship of her beloved dogs Sampson, Deliliah, and her "grand-dog" Bella. Margie believed in kindness and always sought to share happiness with those around her. She was known for being “happy go lucky,” resilient, strong, and always carrying an unforgettable smile and contagious laugh.

Margie endured profound personal challenges, including the loss of two beloved children—Annette Griego (Kenny) and Rudy Sanchez—as well as her brothers Obed Brito (Aurelia), Demostenes Brito Jr. (Lillian) and Archie Brito (Dora), her sister Geneva Sanchez, the father of her children Leonel Sanchez, her parents Demostenes Brito Sr., and Eliza Brito, and her mother-in-law Anita Sanchez. Despite these hardships, she unwaveringly maintained her positivity, finding joy in the time spent with her children and grandchildren.

She enriched the lives of her family with cherished traditions. Her grandchildren fondly recall sleepovers filled with crossword puzzles, TV shows, and movies. Special memories are held of watching Judge Judy with her granddaughter Leorrie, with every show followed by a lively discussion, even if it meant a phone call from afar. Her great-grandson remembers the joy of always finding the best snacks at Grandma Margie’s house, her grandmotherly love shining brightest in these simple moments. Margarita savored the holidays and family gatherings, leading her family in making tamales and other delicious foods. She particularly enjoyed hearing her grandchildren sing “Jesus Loves Me” to her—a sound that brightened her heart.

Margie found peace and purpose in her faith. A devoted Catholic, she prayed daily for her loved ones and for the world, holding steadfast in her beliefs. She gave generously to charities, embodying compassion and selflessness in all she did. Her nurturing extended to all creatures, as she was an animal lover who cared deeply for her pets. Well known for her keen sense of humor and her ability to see the good in everyone, Margie radiated optimism, even in moments of adversity, including her brave and graceful battle with cancer.

Her garden was another source of pride and joy, lovingly tended and always blossoming with beautiful flowers. It was a reflection of her own spirit—vibrant, nurturing, and enduring.

Those whose lives were touched by Margarita Esther Sanchez will never forget her kindness, her laughter, and her unconditional love. Her legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who had the privilege to know her.

Family and friends are invited to honor Margie’s life at Rivera Family Funerals & Cremations of Espanola on Monday, July 13, 2026. A Rosary will be recited from 12:00pm to 1:00pm, and a Funeral Mass will follow from 1:00pm to 2:00pm.

Margarita’s commitment to family, her generosity, and her joyful spirit will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.

The family of Mrs. Sanchez would like to give a special thanks to Yvonne from palliative care for her kindness and care, the care team of Red Willow Hospice of Taos for their professionalism and steadfast support, the Dixon Fire Department for their gentle care of Margie, the Doctors and Nurses of Espanola Presbyterian hospital, who always treated Margie like a celebrity, and to Esther Griego for spending time with her and caring for her. Margie’s family would also like to thank Saint Anthony’s Parish of Dixon Helping Hands for their support and donation, Pastor Solomon Sanchez of Dixon for praying with her and officiating her Funeral Mass, and her neighbors Lydia and Jeffrey for always looking out for her.

The family of Mrs. Sanchez have entrusted the caring professionals at Rivera Family Funeral Home of Espanola to support them during this time. We offer our heartfelt condolences to all.