Raymundo “Ray” Sanchez of Allen, Texas left this earth on February 21, 2019 surrounded by a roomful of family members who loved and adored him. He was born on October 26, 1936 in Midland, Texas to Raymundo and Juanita Sanchez.
Upon completing high school in Midland, Ray enlisted in the United States Army where he was stationed abroad and proudly served his country for 6 years. While in the military, Ray attended the US Army Signal School where he received an education in radio communications and electronics. After leaving the military, Ray went on to have a career as an entrepreneur, owning his own restaurant where he perfected his amazing culinary skills. He eventually retired in 2011 after a long profession in the electronics industry.
Ray was married to his late wife, Josie, for over 50 years and raised two children together, until her death in 2008. He was blessed to find love again in his golden years in 2010 when he met his second wife, Lydia. They were devoted to each other and found happiness in the simple things in life and growing old together. Ray was very quickly accepted into her large family and stole the hearts of his stepchildren, who cherished him as their own blood.
Ray was a fantastic cook and enjoyed creating delicious meals for his family, which they always looked forward to and enjoyed. He loved golf, working in his garden, watching The Texas Longhorns, and spoiling his little dog Carson.
To know Ray was to love Ray. He was the definition of kind and giving, never hesitating to lend a hand to his loved ones. His generosity will never be forgotten.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents Raymundo and Juanita Sanchez; his siblings Rose Gee and Frances Sanchez; and his first wife Josephine Sanchez. He is survived by his wife Lydia of Allen, Texas; siblings Mike (Elia) Sanchez of Lake Tahoe, Nevada; Joe (Hope) Sanchez of Victoria, Texas; Angel Sanchez of Coleman, Texas; Cecelia (Ed) Kennedy of San Antonio, Texas; Johnny (Debbie) Sanchez of Midland, Texas; Rudy (Gloria) Sanchez of Rowlett, Texas; and Mary (Bill) Cooper of San Antonio, Texas. He also leaves behind his daughter Melda Morales of Austin, Texas; son Israel Vijil of Austin, Texas; five stepchildren from Allen, Texas; and a countless number of grandchildren and great grandchildren who loved him dearly.
A graveside burial is planned for the 9th of March 2019 at 3 o’clock in the afternoon at Cook-Walden/Memorial Hill Cemetery in Pflugerville, Texas where Ray will be laid to eternal rest with his first wife Josie.
“Mister Ray”, as he was affectionately called, left a huge imprint in the hearts of many. His passing has left a void that will never be replaced but he will forever be remembered as a “Ray of Sunshine”. We thank you Ray for the joy you brought to our lives. May you rest in heavenly peace.
