Socorro S. Sanchez

Socorro S. Sanchez, born October 1, 1936, went to be with our Lord and Savior on Saturday, October 31, 2026, following a lengthy illness. She lived a life marked by devotion to her family, quiet strength, and a loving, steady presence that will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Socorro was a homemaker who cared faithfully for her family while her husband served in the U.S. Air Force. Her life’s work was centered in the home and in the lives of those she loved most. She earned her high school diploma and carried herself with a simple wisdom that shaped the children and grandchildren around her. She took special joy in caring for her grandchildren and for children in the community, helping prepare the kids in her care for school and guiding them with patience and attention.

She was known as a private and introverted woman, old-fashioned in the best sense of the word, simple, strong, well-disciplined, humble, and very loving. Socorro did not seek attention for herself. She found contentment in quiet routines, in walking, and in the everyday work of looking after others. She never wanted to learn to drive, and walking remained one of the small but memorable parts of her life. Her proudest accomplishments were her children and grandkids, who stood at the center of her heart.

Socorro is survived by her children, Delia Sanchez, Domingo Sanchez (Laurie), Daniel Sanchez (Frances), Roy Sanchez, Diana DeVargas (Paul), Manuel Sanchez (Pat), and Susan Benavidez (Edwin), who shared in the love and guidance she gave throughout her life. She is also survived by her sisters and brother, Amada Madrid (Amadeo) of Pueblo, Colorado, Paul Saiz (Frances) of Sena, and Margaret Bustamante of Villanueva, as well as her sister-in-law, Rosemary Saiz of Villanueva. The family she nurtured and the many young lives she helped along the way remain part of her lasting legacy.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Domingo Sanchez Jr.; her father, Geraldo Saiz; her mother, Pomposa Saiz; her brothers, John “Larry” Saiz, Juan “Jerry” Saiz, and Simon Saiz; her sister, Felipa Casaus; and her grandsons, Nathan Gonzales, Shane Gonzales, and Adam Benavidez. Their memory remained with her throughout her life, and now she is reunited with those who went before her.

Services for Socorro S. Sanchez will be held on November 6, 2026, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 1228 NM-3, Villanueva, NM 87583. A viewing will begin at 8:30 a.m., followed by the Rosary at 9:30 a.m. and Mass at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at 11:15 a.m. at Villanueva Cemetery, Villanueva, NM 87560.

Socorro will be remembered for her quiet love, her humble spirit, and the care she gave so freely to her family and to others. Her life was one of service, discipline, and deep affection, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to call her mother, sister, grandmother, and loved one.