Jose A. Sanchez

On January 7, 2026, God saw fit to call his servant, Jose Atanacio Sanchez to his heavenly home, granting him eternal rest. Jose was born on May 2, 1938, in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, to Antonio Sanchez and Esmerejilda Cavazos-Sanchez, he was the youngest of seven children.

A proud veteran, Jose honorably served his country in the United States Army for 24 years and received the third-highest military decoration for valor, awarded for gallantry in action against an enemy of the U.S. After completing his military service, he pursued a career as a correctional officer, dedicating many years of faithful service and long-term employment with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Jose was united in marriage to his beloved sweetheart, “Schatz” Erika Schmidt. From this union, two children were born: Yvonne and Diana.

In 1974, Jose moved to Killeen, Texas, where he resided for 51 years with his loving wife and their two daughters. He lived a peaceful and private life, dedicated to his family and his service as an infantry soldier. During his time in Texas, he became a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan and never missed a touchdown.

Jose was preceded in death by his parents, Antonio Sanchez and Esmerejilda Cavazos-Sanchez; siblings, Hilaria Sanchez, Guadalupe Rico, Aurelio Sanchez, Carmen Trevino and Manuela Sanchez; and wife, Erika Sanchez.

He leaves to cherish his memory to his oldest sister, Maria Eugenia Medina Torres Sanchez and her family; his oldest daughter, Yvonne Edison and her husband Scottie Edison, her two children, Cameron and Jaszmeen, his great-grandchildren, Kaia and Gavin and his great- great grandchild Isabella; his youngest daughter, Diana Sanchez, and her two children, Khary and London; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever treasure his legacy of love, service, and faith.

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