Jose "Joe" R. Sanchez

Joe was born on February 18, 1937. He was the eldest child and only surviving son of his late parents, Felix and Maria Isabel Sanchez.

He met the love of his life, Lupe (Cervantes) Sanchez at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, where they were later married. They were blessed with 63 years of marriage.

He had to overcome much adversity growing up. Even as a young boy, he worked to help his father support the family, instinctively learning new trades. He maintained a strong work ethic throughout his life, as well as a desire to help those in need.

Joe worked as a longshoreman and gang foreman with the Port of Houston Authority, ILA local 24, for 45 years and formed many lifelong friendships there.

While working, he pursued his dream of being a boxer. He fought in the heavyweight division, sometimes competing in the historic Sam Houston Coliseum. He trained regularly and enjoyed teaching boxing. Eventually, he gave it up so that he could better support his young family.

He was blessed with five children and devoted himself to their welfare and education. He enjoyed barbecuing for his family on Sundays and spending time with his grandchildren. He was also incredibly playful and could make people laugh with his clever commentary or even a single look. He will be sorely missed and will live forever in his family’s hearts.

Joe is survived by his loving wife Lupe; four children: Mary Brownlow (Steven), Felix Sanchez (Nancy Padilla), Teresa Drey (Kyle), and Stella Sanchez (Miguel Ramirez); six grandchildren: Rachel Brownlow Lund (Justin), Monica Brownlow, Charlie Ramirez, Ruby Ramirez, Anna Drey, and Haven Sanchez; five sisters: Matilda Coronado, Sally Hernandez (Raymond), Rosemary Veles (Raymond), Yolanda Farpon, and Amelia Flores (Horacio); and numerous other loving family members and friends. He is preceded in death by his adult son, Jose Luis “Joey” Sanchez.

His family would like to give a special thanks to his wonderful hospice caregivers. Their dedication, compassion, and love brought comfort to him and his family.

Funeral services will take place at 11:00 am on Friday, May 14, 2021 at St. Augustine Catholic Church, located at 5560 Laurel Creek Way, Houston, TX. Burial will be immediately following at Forest Park Funeral Home, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX. We ask that a face covering be worn to protect the most vulnerable. A Celebration of Life is planned for a future date.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be made in his honor to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or St. Augustine Catholic Church, 5438 Laurel Creek Way, Houston, TX 77017.