Reynalda Maria Sanchez

Reynalda “Bernie” Sanchez passed away on February 14, 2022. 

Bernie was born on April 23, 1929, to the late Simon and Emilia Ortiz in Chimayo, New Mexico.   She was married for 62 years to her beloved late husband, Fidel Sanchez in Santa Fe, NM.  

She was preceded in death by her parents, Simon and Emilia, husband, Fidel Sanchez, sons; Leroy Sanchez, Frank Sanchez, and Fidel Sanchez Jr., grandchildren; Marty, Michael, Elizabeth, Senaida, and Jacob.

She is survived by her children, Lee Sanchez, Daniel Sanchez (Gloria), Joe Sanchez (Jennifer), Christine Sanchez-Warren (David), Jerry Sanchez and Cecilia Ortiz (preceded by David), 24 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, extended family and numerous friends.

Bernie was a faithful woman who loved the Lord, her family and church.  She was employed and retired after 23 years with the Santa Fe Public Schools as a Cook in Food Services.  Thereafter, she volunteered in various duties with the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of the Santa Fe Senior Services Division.  During this time she also worked part-time as an AVON Lady.

Bernie was very much loved and respected by everyone around her.  She was a warm, loving, generous and beautiful person who made a lasting friendship with everyone she met.  She dearly loved and enjoyed her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.   She revisited many memories of her husband; traveling, camping, dancing, gardening, visiting with friends and enjoying family.  Bernie enjoyed varied conversations with friends and family; she had a historic remembrance of Santa Fe places, times and people.  In her late years she still enjoyed cooking and baking, especially her famous, and our favorites, red chili and biscochitos.  She also liked being out-and-about; taking short drives or out-of-town trips was a favorite pastime.  She truly enjoyed her long life.

A recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held on Wednesday, March 9, 2022 at 9:00 a.m., followed by Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anne Parrish, 511 Alicia St., Santa Fe, NM.  A private Interment will take place on Thursday, March 10, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Leroy Sanchez, Jonathan Sanchez, David Ortiz, Stephen Sanchez, Levi Martinez, and Travis Sanchez.  Honorary pallbearer will be Kevin Pacheco.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Rivera Funeral Services.