With the heaviest of hearts, the Sanchez family announces the passing of Wallace Leroy "Wally" Sanchez "Sanch" as he was referred to by his students. He went with our Lord on Easter Sunday, with his family by his side. He was born to Max Eloy Sanchez and Eva B. Romero in Springer, NM. He is survived by his life partner and love of his life, Margaret (married 48 years). His loved and cherished children, Sonya Lucero (John) and Wallace F. Sanchez. His grandsons, who meant the world to him, Samual Wallace Sanchez and Isaac Leroy Sanchez.  His mother Eva Sanchez. Sister's Lorraine Sanchez and Maxine Bates (James) all of Albuquerque. Sister's Selma Salazar (Phil) and Georgiana Gonzales (Roy) of Taos. Joseph Sanchez (Alicia) of Santa Fe. Numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved so much. He is preceded in death by his father, Max Eloy Sanchez. Uncles-Litra J. Romero, John Romero, Clarence Romero, Lencho Sanchez and Jim Sanchez. Aunts-Gloria, Annabelle, Melba, Ida and Elise. Cousins-Lenny, Virginia, Margaret, Leroy, Paul, Gina, Anna, Gilbert, Joseph, Marcos and Johnny. Father-in-law, Andres Lovato, Mother-in-law, Jesusita, Brother-in-law, Leroy, Sisters in law, Susan and JoAnn, niece and goddaughter, Felicia. Most recently, we were so blessed to have him walk his only daughter, Sonya down the aisle, on March 17th, 2024 as she married John Lucero, while at hospital receiving care.

He was the band director at RHS for over 30 years. Music was his passion. To him it was not a job, it was his life. He had a great rapport with all his students. To this day they speak fondly of "Sanch". He was inducted into "Who's Who" of Teachers of America, twice. He gave his students guidance, wisdom, kindness and shared his passion for music. He sent many of them to district and state. Performed at many State Fair Parades. His band room is now named after him-Wallace "Wally" Sanchez Red Wave Band Center.

Cremation has taken place. A rosary will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows church on Thursday April 11, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. A funeral mass will follow on Friday, April 12, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Church. Interment will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are entrusted to and under the care of Rogers Mortuary 600 Reynolds Ave., Las  Vegas, NM 87701, 505-425-3511 or 1-800-479-3511.