John “Johnny” Gilbert Sanchez went to be with the Lord on November 15, 2025.

He was born on May 4, 1962, in Crane, Texas to Gilbert and Alcaria Sanchez.

On September 18, 1982, he married the love of his life Amelia Sanchez, and they went on to have three children Laura Sanchez, Stephanie Esparza, and Matthew Sanchez. Son in law Marq Esparza, and three grandchildren Michael John, Jacob, and Lucas Esparza whom he loved dearly.

Johnny was the second of 7 siblings, four brothers, Ismael “Miley” Sanchez, wife Lisa, Daniel “Danny” Sanchez, wife Terri, Jamie Sanchez, wife Lori, Mark Sanchez, wife Shannon, and two sisters Cristy Tarin, husband Lupe, and Anna Kennedy, husband Danny.

In his early years Johnny and his siblings would work at their father’s drive inn in Crane, Texas, Derrick Drive Inn. In recent years he went back to manage what is now his father’s trailer park, Derrick Trailer Court, as well as help take care of his parents and grandchildren.

Whenever he got the chance he would travel, he loved getting out of the house and seeing new places, especially the ones with casinos. He took great pride in his fish tank, and spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Whether that was taking vacations together, decorating for the holidays, or just sitting around the living room talking and joking.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents Manuel and Paula Sanchez, and Mike and Lucia Gutierrez.

Johnny is survived by his wife, parents, children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.