Maria Gloria Sanchez, 74, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 15, 2024, in Abilene, TX surrounded by family. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 from 5:00-7:00 PM at North's Funeral Home located at 242 Orange St. Abilene, Texas 79601. A Final Viewing will be held on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at 10:00 AM at North's Funeral Home with a Graveside Service to follow at Hawley Cemetery, Hawley, Texas.

Maria was born on September 14, 1949, in Thompson, North Dakota to her loving parents Juan Gloria and Dora Flores Gloria. She married Reyes B. Sanchez, Sr., on September 19, 1967, in Dimmitt, TX. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around love and family.

Maria had a passion for all flowers, with a special fondness for roses. She enjoyed family gatherings. Her favorite food was tacos, and she enjoyed playing bingo and listening to Christian music and to the Oldies. She often shared her humorous wisdom through favorite sayings, including "Carne, Mr. Willy?" and "Chispale, Lepes!"

Maria is survived by her husband, Reyes; her children: Toni Brawley and husband Wesley; Robert Sanchez and wife Tina; Betty Zamora and husband Delbert; Reyes Sanchez, Jr. and wife Maribel; and David Sanchez and wife Jocelynn. She is also survived by her sister Juana and brothers Lupe, Ruben, Marshall, Eloy, and Rene.

Maria was a proud grandmother to 17 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life. She also leaves behind numerous nephews, nieces, and extended family, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Lori Lea Sanchez, and her parents, Juan and Dora. Maria is also reunited in heaven with her brothers Bruno, Jesus, Gilbert, and Martin. Maria Gloria Sanchez will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

The family would like to thank those who already have or plan to send flowers. The family asks that any donations to be made in Maria's name to Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, an organization that was close to Maria's heart. https://scottishriteforchildren.org/get-involved