Basilisa Sanchez Calderon

Basilisa Sanchez Calderon, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on April 15, 1936, in the small town of Terlingua, Texas, Lisa embodied the spirit of resilience and creativity throughout her life, leaving behind a legacy of love that will be felt for generations.

Basilisa was known for her remarkable talents as a seamstress, often creating beautiful dresses not just for herself, but also for her family. Her hands, which were skilled in the craft of sewing, also deftly embraced the joys of crocheting, embroidery, and gardening. She found immense joy in crafting and dedicated her time to nurturing her surroundings, bringing life and color wherever she went.

A devout member of St. Therese Catholic Church, Basilisa was actively involved in the Legion of Mary, where her faith and community spirit shined brightly. She was a guiding light to many in her parish, offering support and love to those around her while strengthening her own faith through service.

Basilisa is survived by her loving children: Amalia Chavez, Samuel Calderon and his wife, Alicia, Grace Estrada, Oscar Calderon, and Gabriel Calderon and his wife, Edwina, sister Prajedes Aguirre, and brothers Angelino Sanchez, and Ruben Sanchez. She took great pride in being a grandmother, great-grandmother, and even a great-great-grandmother, and she leaves behind a legacy of ten grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren who will carry her memory in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Hilario Calderon, and her son, Samuelito Calderon. Basilisa also mourned the loss of her parents, Vicente Sanchez and Manuela Ramirez Sanchez, as well as her siblings, Dolores Sanchez, Flora Lopez, Maria Maestas, and Salvador Sanchez.

Basilisa’s vibrant spirit, creative talents, and unwavering love for her family and faith will be profoundly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her. As we celebrate her life, we remember the warmth she brought into our lives and the indelible mark she left on our hearts. As we reflect on her journey, it is clear that Basilisa lived a life rich with purpose, love, and unyielding dedication to her family and community. 

Pallbearers: Josh Sanchez, Martin Trujillo, Francisco Calderon, Gabriel Calderon Jr., Randy Calderon, and Beto Pena. 

In lieu of flowers, it was Basilisa's wish that donations be made to St. Therese Catholic Church, in her memory. 

A viewing will be held on Monday December 16, 2024, at St. Therese Catholic Church located at 3424 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107, from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm. A rosary will follow the viewing from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on December 17, 2024, at St. Therese Catholic Church at 10:00 am, followed by burial at Mount Calvary Cemetery located at 1900 Edith Blvd Ne, Albuquerque, NM 87102, at 11:30 am.