Ismael De Jesus Sanchez

Ismael De Jesús Sanchez, 73, of Port Arthur, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. He was born on December 27, 1952, in Honduras to Facunda Cruz Sanchez and Antonio Sanchez.

Ismael was a devoted Catholic with a deep and abiding faith in God, and he was a longtime member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. His belief in faith, family, and service guided him throughout his life.

Ismael was a loving husband, father, wello, brother‑in‑law, and uncle. He cherished every moment spent with his family and grandchildren. One of his greatest joys was traveling back to his beloved Honduras, where he found peace in the mountains, beaches, and pastures, but most importantly, in the company of the family he adored.

A hard-working provider, Ismael began his journey at a young age working aboard cruise ships as a waiter. There he met people from all over the world, developing a passion for learning about different cultures and beliefs. His kindness and curiosity touched every life he encountered.

Ismael later migrated to Texas, planting his roots in Port Arthur, Texas. For more than 35 years, he worked in the Industrial Hazardous Waste Facility as a Supervisor. He formed countless friendships, many of which grew into lifelong family bonds. Ismael had a heartfelt desire to help others and took pride in watching people grow and succeed. He never met a stranger.

Education was especially important to him. A self‑taught English speaker, reader, and writer, Ismael valued learning and encouraged his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews to pursue education as the key to success. He often reminded loved ones that “there is no dumb question,” believing that understanding came from asking and seeking knowledge.

His generosity, humility, and affection for others reflected the true essence of his character. Even in his passing, Ismael continued giving, donating his organs so that others could have a second chance at life. His family is profoundly proud of the legacy, example, and spirit of compassion he leaves behind.

Ismael is preceded in death by his parents, Facunda Cruz and Antonio Sanchez, his son, Edwin Ordonez, and two brothers, Jose Israel Sanchez and Ismael Sanchez.

He is survived by his wife, Norma Sanchez; his two daughters, Wendy Sarkis and husband Imad, and Josdy Ruiz and husband Jose Luis; and his grandchildren, Ariel Muller, Kenneth Muller, Bradley Ruiz, Eunice Ruiz, and Elias Sarkis. His Siblings, Josefina Sanchez, Elvia Sanchez, Sandra Sanchez Escobar, Etelvina Sanchez, Eva Sanchez Turano, Hector Sanchez and Antonio Sanchez. He also leaves behind numerous sister in laws, brother in laws, nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved.

Ismael leaves behind a legacy celebrated by all whose lives he enriched. A visitation is planned for Friday, February 13, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM with the Trisagion starting at 7:00 PM, at Clayton Thompson Funeral Home located at 5200 West Parkway Street, Groves, TX 77619. Visitation will resume the following day, Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Clayton Thompson Funeral Home from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. A funeral service honoring the memory of Ismael will begin at 2:00 PM and conclude at his final resting place at Oak Bluff in Port Neches, Texas.

Live streaming will be available on this website Friday, February 13, 2026, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Saturday, February 14, 2026, 1:45 PM to 3:00 PM for family and friends that are not able to attend in person.