Abel Sanchez, Sr., of Temple, Texas, passed away peacefully at his residence on December 8, 2024, at the age of 60. He was born on March 9, 1964, in Austin, Texas, to Cosme Sanchez and Alice (Gomez) Sanchez.
Abel grew up in Del Valle, Texas, where he attended school. He later settled in Temple, Texas, where he raised his family and built a life filled with love and faith. Abel began his career at Lack’s in Temple, working there for four years before working at Wilsonart for 13 years. He then worked at Aries, did construction, and Dynasty. In recent years, he devoted himself to caring for his son Nic until Nic’s passing in May 2023.
A man of strong Christian faith, Abel found joy and comfort in attending Sunday services and cherished the sense of community it brought him. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Known for his infectious laughter and lively spirit, Abel was the life of every gathering. Whether turning on music to dance or sharing stories that brought smiles to those around him, he had a gift for brightening any room.
Abel was preceded in death by his mother, Alice Sanchez; his son Nicholas Sanchez; his brother Ruben Sanchez; and his grandmother Rafaela Tellez Gomez. He is survived by his daughters Virginia Sanchez, Janie Torres, Daniella Sanchez, Kristie Rodriguez, and Angelina Sanchez; his sons Abel Sanchez, Jr., and John Sanchez; his sisters Mary Rendon, Mary Sanchez, Annie DeLeon, Yolanda Meadows, and Mary Jane Ethredge; his brothers Albert Sanchez, Daniel Sanchez, Louis Sanchez, and Steve Sanchez; as well as 24 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, December 20, 2024, at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024, also at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home.
Abel’s unwavering faith and joyful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him.
