Joe Gallegos Sanchez

Joe Gallegos Sanchez, affectionately known as "Cowboy Joe," was born on May 30, 1956, in Alamogordo, New Mexico, to Eduardo and Verlinda Sanchez. He was the sixth of twelve children in a lively and close-knit family: Josie, Margie, Raymond, Baby Joe, Kathy, Joe, Pauline, Mary, Robert, Nellie, Benny, and Richard. The Sanchez family has grown with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and more- all received with strength and love.

Joe passed away peacefully at his home on August 3, 2025, surrounded by love and comfort of his boys and the love of his life, Denise.

Joe attended elementary school in Alamogordo, where he formed many lifelong friendships. But his heart was always drawn to the mountains. During his teenage years, he moved to the Downs, and later found his way to the Hondo Valley, which became his true home. He lived most of his adult life in San Patricio, where he spent the past 40 years.

In 1975, Joe welcomed his first son, Freddy, with Tina. Eleven years later, his second son, Michael, was born. Both sons were a true reflection of their father, embracing the values Joe held dear and passing them down to their own children, alongside his daughters-in-law, Amber and Lorie. Joe was a proud and devoted grandfather to five grandchildren: Justin, Cody, Jariah, Jayden, and Addison. Joe was a father figure to his nephews: Christopher, Edward, Paul and Ruben among many others who had the pleasure to learn from him.

A hardworking man, Joe spent many years in construction before making the decision to take a pay cut for a more promising future with Greentree Solid Waste. That leap of faith paid off, and after many dedicated years, he eventually retired. True to his nature, retirement didn't slow him down-he continued to lend his skills as a handyman, always willing to help those in need.

Joe had a deep love for the outdoors. He thrived in the mountains, enjoying horseback riding, camping, hunting, fishing and hosting legendary gatherings where his cooking was as memorable as his company. His home was always open, and his heart even more so.

Cowboy Joe lived by the timeless values of the Old West-honesty, hard work, faith, and loyalty. His love for God and others was unconditional, and those lucky enough to know him felt the strength of that love every day.