Carmelita Marie Sanchez, lovingly known as Carma, of Dove Creek, Colorado, entered Heaven on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Carma was born on October 3, 1952, in Eagle, Colorado, to Mel and Adeline Montano. She grew up with her two younger sisters, Donna and Lorraine, and a beloved older brother who passed at a young age.

On June 14, 1972, Carma married her high school sweetheart, Kirby Sanchez, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love and devotion. Together they raised two children, Brandon and Mandi, who were the greatest joy of her life. Her love for her children was unwavering, and she never stopped finding ways—big or small—to make their lives better.

Carma was a devoted stay-at-home mother until her children reached junior high, after which she moved to Dove Creek from the family farm. She worked at Frosty’s and later at the school before discovering her true calling as a certified nursing assistant. In home health care, she found deep fulfillment, caring for each patient as if they were family.

Carma’s greatest passions were her faith in Jesus and her family—especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was blessed with a generous and giving heart, never met a stranger, and freely shared her love for Jesus. A true prayer warrior, she faithfully prayed for others and was often the one family and friends turned to in times of need. Her prayers were always answered—sometimes not on our timeline, but always with purpose.

She also loved adventure and cherished simple getaways. Before entering Heaven, she was blessed to experience many items on her bucket list, including horseback riding on the beach, swimming with dolphins, visiting Yellowstone, while traveling with her daughter, her cherished travel buddy.

In 2018, Carma courageously beat cancer. After the loss of her husband in 2019, she astonished everyone by continuing to live independently, meeting each day with grace, strength, and unwavering trust in the Lord.

Carma will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She is survived by her son, Brandon Sanchez (Mistina); her daughter, Mandi Birge (Jeremy); grandchildren Micaiah Sanchez, BriAnna Comyford, and Elsa Sanchez; great-grandchildren Kaden, Adeline, and Amelia June; as well as her sisters and many extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her older brother, and her beloved husband.

A Celebration of Life honoring Carma’s beautiful spirit will be held on May 9, 2026, (her favorite time of year) at the Lewis Arriola Community Center. The time will be announced at a later date.