Maria "Lulu" Sanchez, 64, of Midland, Texas, passed away Feb. 14, 2022, surrounded by family.  She was born Dec. 5, 1957.

Lulu was the definition of a devout Christian woman. She served as a eucharistic minister at Sunday mass. She was also a catechism teacher and a cursillista, and volunteered her time every year to the Family Fair at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. As a mother and wife Lulu used her faith to lead her family with love and strength. As a professional, Lulu spent over 20 years in the banking industry before retiring in 2010.

Lulu will be remembered by her beautiful smile and striking eyes. Her kind gestures in life will continue to resonate through the many on whom she has made a positive impact. Lulu was a lifetime giver who loved to gift (unless it was chocolate - she was keeping it). Many family members will remember her by the hit single “Dingo! Dingo!" By the Mamas and the Papas, written and produced by Maria "Lulu" Sanchez.

She is survived by her loving husband, Tony Sanchez; mother Catalina Ontiveros; sons T.J Anthony (Nicole) Sanchez, Michael "Eazy" (Amber) Sanchez; daughter Paula (Marc) Garza- Maria's absolute favorite child; eight grandsons, Marc Sanchez, Nick Sanchez, Steve Sanchez, Ezra Alfaro, Blaise Sanchez, Marc Garza Jr., Alexander Garza, and Michael Garza; four granddaughters, Kaitlyn Sanchez, Scarlett Alfaro, Porcelain Garza, and Easton Sanchez; two sisters, Elizabeth Lara and Mary Salinas; two brothers, Jesus Ontiveros and Edward Ontiveros; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father Miguel Ontiveros, and sister Sandra Villarreal.

Viewing was held Feb. 21, 2022, with the rosary at the Branch at Nalley-Pickle and Welch Funeral Home. Funeral mass was held Feb. 22, 2022, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish and Shrine, with interment following at Serenity Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Nick Sanchez, Steve Sanchez, Blaise Sanchez, Matthew Holtzapple, Michael Lopez, Robert Lopez, Joseph Lerma, and Ruben Lara.

The family suggests memorial donations be made to Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

The family would like to express our gratitude to the wonderful help at Star Hospice of Odessa, and the wonderful caregivers/nurses that were staffed at the Sanchez residence. We would also like to thank our friends and family for their support during this difficult time.

Arrangements were under the direction of Nalley-Pickle and Welch Funeral Home and Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at npwelch.com.