Shirley Sanchez Smith, brave warrior to illness and lifelong resident of California, died on Friday, August 28, 2020, at the young age of 58 years old with her loved ones by her hospital bedside.
Shirley is survived by her father, Tómas Sanchez Jr.; her husband, Russell James Smith; her daughters, Vanessa Chanté Jara, Candace Tiéja Smith and Jessica Chérie Smith; her son-in-law, Matthew Joseph Jara; and her grandchildren, Jason Isaiah Smith, Angelina Raquel Jara, Victoria Bella Conn, Natalie Gabriela Jara and Liam James Conn. She is predeceased by her grandson, Gabriel Marcus Jara; her mother-in-law, Elizabeth J. Smith; her father-in-law, William C. Smith; and her mother, Alicia Sanchez.
Shirley was born in San José, CA on January 19, 1962 to Tómas Sanchez Jr. and Alicia Sanchez. After a 3-week whirlwind romance, Shirley was engaged to her prince charming, Russell Smith. Six months later, on August 14, 1982, they were married. Shortly after, on August 13, 1984, she welcomed her first baby girl to the world. Following, on August 24, 1989, she welcomed twin daughters. Shirley was a lovingly devoted wife and mother. Her three daughters were her whole world. Still, she lived for the day that she would become a grandmother. Her dreams came true between 2007 & 2018, when she happily embraced five new additions to the family. She truly lived each and every day for her grandchildren. No matter the pain she may have been suffering through, the joy her grandchildren brought her always put a smile on her face.
Early in her career, she worked as an esthetician and hairdresser, but later kept that as a side talent for her family and friends. Shirley can best be remembered in her stars and stripes jacket getting kids pumped up to support their schools by selling Gift Checks Inc. coupon books-- there was no deal she could pass up! When she wasn’t working with schools or helping at Catechism and RCIA, she was at the flea market finding bargains.
Her will in life was to enjoy each day to its fullest. She was goofy and full of life. She had the most genuine laugh, biggest smile, and kindest heart. Even on her lowest days, she would make sure that everyone else was taken care of first. She was a selfless woman who endlessly strove to improve the lives of others. She will be greatly missed by all.
SERVICE
A funeral service is scheduled for 12:00pm on Wednesday, September 9, 2020, at Cherokee Memorial Cemetery, 14165 Beckman Road; Lodi, CA 95240. The viewing will be held prior to the funeral service on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 between 9:00am-11:30am, 831 Industrial Way; Lodi, CA 95240.
Due to COVID-19, there will only be five people allowed in the viewing room at one time, masks required. There are no restrictions at the graveside for the funeral; however, masks are highly recommended.
