Maria J. Sanchez, age 71 of Defiance, passed away on Wednesday, December 25, 2024 at ProMedica Toledo Hospital.

She was born in La Flor de Jimulco, Coahulia, Mexico on September 23, 1953 to Bernardo and Enriqueta (Martinez) Aguilar. On June 13, 1971, she married Claudio Sanchez, who preceded her in death.

Maria was a member of Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Defiance. She loved to cook and entertain. She enjoyed dancing and doing arts and crafts. Maria always had a good sense of humor, loved spending time with her children and helping her family.

Maria is survived by her father, Bernardo Aguilar of Mexico, daughter, Claudia (Corey) Hurtt of Defiance, brother, Jose (Cecilia) Aguilar of Mexico, sisters, Elizabeth (Jason) Heidenescher and Minerva (Israel) Perez, all of Defiance, and her grandson, Ethan Hurtt of Defiance.

She was preceded in death by her mother Enriqueta Aguilar, husband Claudio Sanchez, her son Jesus Sanchez, and brothers Juan, Mario and Francisco Aguilar.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Schaffer Funeral Home was honored to assist the family with arrangements.

Memorials are suggested to the Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses.