Esther Leticia Sanchez

It is with saddened hearts to announce the passing of our mother, Esther, on July 29, 2025, in Albuquerque, at the age of 95. She was born in Pena Blanca, New Mexico, one of 13 children of Tomas and Lucinda C' de Baca.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Ray, her son Steven, grandson, Victor; and nine brothers and sisters. She is survived by two sons, Richard and Michael; four daughters, Cynthia, Darlene (husband, Gary), Pamela, and Christine. She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Stephanie, Kaila, Anthony, Isaac, Amanda, Justina and Janel; 14 great grand children; two great-great grandchildren; her sisters, Josephine Sandoval and Lucinda Peck and brother, Maximilian C' de Baca.

Our mother was a strong, determined and fiercely independent woman who inspired us to be the same. All her life she loved, cared and supported her family and friends especially in times of need. She was a care-giver and companion for many elderly and home-bound women by giving them rides, cleaning their homes, sitting with them and attending to them every day, in many cases. She was a devout Catholic and was a life-long parishioner and later a Eucharistic Minister of Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. She was a member of the Queen of Heaven Catholic Daughters which is a group of Catholic women dedicated to spiritual growth and charitable works.

Thank you all for showering your love and friendship for our mother now and over the years. With a special thank you to Gary who helped with her care and spent many nights sitting with her, talking with her, and laughing with her while watching, "The Three Stooges". Even after  her hearing faded, she knew what those "Stooges" were up to laughing heartily!  Mom, we carry your love and laughter in our hearts forever. Thank you for being our Mother!

Memorial Services will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, 5310 Claremont Ave., NE Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110. A rosary will take place at 9:30a followed by Mass at 10:00a, interment to follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 1900 Edith Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102. Details of the reception will be provided after the services and/or after interment.