Phoenix – Nellie T. Sanchez, formerly of Shafter, Texas, passed away in her home on April 18, 2021 at the age of 85.
Nellie was born in Texas in 1936, the oldest of Apolonio and Faustina Trejo. She attended Ray High School in Sonora, Ariz. She married the love of her life Henry O. Sanchez, raising 7 children in a small copper mining town, Dudleyville, Ariz.
Nellie was busy. She retired from banking after 30 years. After, she spent her days caring for her grandchildren and became a familiar face in the Phoenix community volunteering at the church as a choir director, religious education director, fiesta coordinator, and St. Vincent De Paul member for over 30 years.
We were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from Nellie during her 85 years, among them: The importance of family and remaining humble, which is instilled in everyone she encountered.
Nellie was preceded in death by her mother and father Apolonio and Faustina Trejo; husband of 47 years, Henry O. Sanchez; one grandchild, Enrique “Chito” Sanchez; and two brothers, Joe and Paul Trejo.
Her spirit is carried on by her 7 children, Sylvia Tirado, Henry (Irene) Sanchez, Gerard (Rachelle) Sanchez, Mary Angel (Daniel) Serrano, Stanley Sanchez, Bernadette (Angel) Miranda, Carmen (Michael) Gore; 22 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; sisters, Emma (Waverly) , Isabel “Chavela”, and Josephine “Josie”; and extended family and friends from every walk of life.
She led by example. There was never a job too large or too small that she would not tackle. She was strong, humble and the most generous woman you could have ever met. We will miss her every day.
Celebration of her life will take place on Friday, April 23, 2021, 4-6 pm (viewing/rosary), Whitney and Murphy funeral home; Saturday, April 24, 2021, 10 am (mass), Queen of Peace Church, 141 N MacDonald, Mesa, AZ 85201. Interment to follow at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, 1562 E Baseline Rd, Mesa, AZ 85204.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations in her name to Saint Edwards/Saint Vincent De Paul, 4751 E Saint Catherine Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Kelly Chavez
Such a beautiful women and loved by so many. I send my condolences to all her family.
Grant Dull
So so sorry to hear about your loss and the passing of your mother, I have Quite a few memories/ conversations with your Mom through out the years and I remember her very fondly, she always had a smile and an encouraging word for most people even strangers, heaven just received another angel and she is going to be missed very much by many hear on earth, Take care of yourselfs and each other until you can join her again in the hereafter!!!
Manny González
Okie deepest condolences in the passing of your beautiful, caring and loving mom, Sylvia, Chachi, Jerry, Stanley, Bernie, Mary Angel, Carmen and the rest of the Sanchez family! Nellie was an inspiration not only to your family but everyone she touched. We send our , hugs and ❤️ for your great loss and know that you can count on us for support during this tough time. Hang in there, Manny, Deb, Erika, Aaron González and our entire family. We are sad and sorry we can’t join you for her celebration of life for Nellie.
Nick and Sal Martinez Family
I have many memories of Nellie that I will cherish for a long time. My condolences to the family. God bless you all.
Katie Martinez
My warmest condolences to the whole family. Sending love and blessings to comfort you all during this time. Cherish your memories as we all keep her alive in our hearts. She was an amazing person who I had the privilege of knowing. So humble, selfless, and full of God’s grace. I will carry you in my heart. Thank you for loving me and for sharing your kindness with me and my family.
Oh Nellie how I’ll miss you. I love you Sanchez Familia
Teresita Martinez Olmos
Our deepest sympathies to the Sanchez, Trejo, Castillo families. Nellie was such an awesome, caring, genuine person. She always asked how my Dad Mike & my mother Carmen, & my in-laws Frankie & Chuy were doing whenever she was in town attending a wedding, funeral or celebration. When she sang in the St. Joseph’s choir with my aunt Celia & uncle Arnold in Hayden, she always had a smile for everyone at mass. She greeted everyone with kindness & respect. She, & her mother Faustina prepared many salads for my & my husband ‘s wedding almost 41 years ago. She & Henry attended every family & friends’ gatherings. She now rests after having served her Lord & Savior & so many years. Rest in peace Nellie. May the Lord welcome you into his kingdom with open arms. It was a pleasure knowing you in this life. Teresita, Judas & Gilbert Michael Olmos Hayden, AZ
Sandra Vizcarra
My deepest condolences to the Sanchez Family , Although I did not know her personally I know Bernie who is wonderful and loving and a special Woman and now I know why because of such a Great Woman Nellie was. May the Lord comfort the entire family as Nellie has made it home .
“Blessed are those who mourn for they will b e comforted” Matthew 5:4
Sandra Vizcarra
Ralph Velez
Our deepest condolences to the Henry/Nellie Sanchez family. Our Comadre Nellie was an awesome, caring and lovable person . She will be missed dearly.
Arturo Velez Family
Kearny, aZ
Ruben Perez
Nellie Trejo Sanchez left her heart print on Earth. Indeed Nellie was a beautiful, talented Lady with a natural, loving smile. I can see Nellie’s smile open eyes or closed eyes.
My deepest condolences to all her family, and to her family-of -friends.
Ruben Perez
Nellie Trejo Sanchez left her heart print on Earth. Indeed Nellie was a beautiful, talented Lady with a natural, loving smile. I can see Nellie’s smile with open or closed eyes.
My deepest condolences to all her family, and to her family-of -friends.
Ruben Perez