In Loving Memory of

Jesse Morales Sanchez

1944 - 2026

Our amazing father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend Jesse Morales Sanchez went to meet our Lord on his wife's Margaret's birthday, June 28, 2026. Born April 26, 1944, in Victoria, Texas. His parents Juan Sanchez and Gregoria Sanchez raised ten children: Jesse and his nine brothers and two sisters.

Predeceased by his parents, and the love of his life, wife Margaret Lydia Sanchez. One son, Larry, one son-in-law; one stepson, a stepdaughter and one step-son-in-law; eight brothers, and one sister.

Surviving him is his son, Jesse Sanchez Jr., wife, Sandy, daughter, Michelle Holbrook, (recently deceased May 2026) husband Danny, and Loraine Denton. Stepchildren, T.J. (Thomas Joseph Smith), and wife Adele, Deborah Ann Myer; nineteen grandchildren and six great grandchildren, and one sister and one brother.

Jesse grew up in a loving family in South Texas, where they faced extreme poverty. He often said he did not realize they were poor because everyone around them lived the same way. As soon as he was old enough, he joined the military, served bravely in Vietnam, and was later stationed stateside.

Jesse was a firsthand father who was deeply involved in his children's lives, especially their sports. He loved fishing, bowling, and competitive pool. He often spoke to his children and grandchildren about the importance of a college education. He was proud of each and everyone's college degree. He enjoyed spending time with people, visiting friends, dining out, and going to the casino. He loved family gatherings. As a past Post commander and adjutant, through the years he held other local and national affiliations and positions representing disabled American Veterans in New Mexico and throughout the United States. He and Margaret traveled extensively as public speakers supporting disability causes around the country.

Injuries he sustained during the war caused serious health problems later in life. Before losing his eyesight, you might see Jesse riding his red scooter down Fourth Street, with his U.S. flag and service memorabilia waving in the wind. He held onto his independence as long as he could. He eventually became blind and declared 100% disabled. Through it all, he kept a cheerful outlook and perspective and never complained.

Upon Margaret's ordination as a Christian minister Jesse devoted his life to the ministry. Together, they served and fed those in need and helped wherever and whenever they could. He later began preaching, spending hours preparing scripture-based sermons that connected faith with everyday life—an approach people cherished. His message followed a biblical teaching, adapting scripture to present problems.

Despite all the trauma he endured, Jesse remained optimistic and showed love and appreciation for others. He remained a proud United States Army veteran who understood and respected the meaning of our flag. Jesse gave his heart and soul to the Lord and never deviated from it – he was a true man of God. He loved the LORD, his wife, family, friends, and his church community. And - how about those Dallas Cowboys!

A Celebration of Jesse's Life will be held in the Chapel of Direct Funeral Services, 2919 4th ST. NW., ABQ., NM, on Friday, July 10, 2026 at 2:00 pm with US Army Honors.

Revelation 21:4: "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."