Ollie "Marie" Sanchez

Ollie “Marie” Sanchez, born on January 29, 1949, in Colorado City, Texas to L.R. Sanchez and Iris Belle Sanchez (Staggs), passed away peacefully on January 29, 2026, in Sulphur Springs, Texas, marking the end of remarkable life.

Marie lived her life with a spirited independence and a personality that could be described as “meaner than a wildcat.” Her fierce disposition was matched only by her unwavering devotion to her family, of which she was immensely proud of. Marie’s journey began in the small town of Rockett, Texas. She later spent many years in Emory, Texas.

Professionally, Marie dedicated a significant portion of her life working as a bank teller. In this role she exemplified a strong work ethic and commitment to serving her community.

Throughout her life, Marie had a love for flowers, often incorporating them into her paintings and home environment. This simple yet passionate hobby reflected her love for nature. There wasn’t a season that passed that she didn’t tend to her gardens, ensuring when the time was right her pretties were ready to grow. She created the most elaborate spaces all around her home and could teach you anything you might need to know when it came to planting flowers or plants of any kind.

Among her garden’s many bird feeders can be found. She especially loved hummingbirds. She created spaces for them all to come and nest, feed, and enjoy her beautiful spaces. She knew their schedules better than anyone we’ve ever met.

Marie is survived by sons Jason Werneking and Dusty Murley, her sister’s Janie and her husband Lupe Rando, Doris Cassady, Beatrice Stiles, Alicia, and her husband George W. Fry. She is survived by her brothers Genesis and his wife Connie, Gus, Benito, Frank and his wife Jackie, Robert, Samuel, Ralph, and dear friend Carolyn. Also, many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Ronnie Charles Murley; and her sisters Escolastica Bastardo; Hijina Bastardo; Angela Staggs, Pauline Barrera, Susie Cassady, and Iris Ruth. Marie was proceeded in death by brothers: Juan; Miguel; Lorenzo; Visente; Lonjino; Amador, Daniel, Matthew, and Jerry.

In addition to her flower gardens, she had a pecan orchard, she and her husband, Ronnie tended to for many years. It wasn’t uncommon to find her yard full of buckets around the trees, and her pecan picker filling them to the top. She could work circles around any man in that orchard. Those pecans were made into a delightful treat of pecan candy that she shared with all those she loved.

There wasn’t anything Marie couldn’t do. She was an amazing cook, homemaker, and the best gardener we all knew. She made the best salsa and homemade chips, and her pot of beans were the hit of many gatherings with her friends and family.

Ollie “Marie” Sanchez leaves behind a legacy steeping in independence, creativity, and familial pride. She will be remembered not only for her professional contributions but also for the colorful life she led- full of passion, creativity, and an unwavering spirit. Her memory will continue to inspire those who knew and loved her.

The memorial services for Marie will be February 28, 2026. Location: Chris and Tammy Key’s home: 1801 N Oak Branch Road Waxahachie, TX 75167. Time 12:00 PM -3:00 PM.

In gathering to honor Marie’s life and pay our final respects, we shall remember her for the beautiful soul she was—a beloved mother, sister, aunt, and friend who always made us laugh.

Ollie Marie Sanchez was so much to each person she encountered with her tenacity of living life full. May her memory live on in our hearts and gardens.