Ricardo "Rick" Sanchez

Our beloved Ricardo Sanchez, known as Rick by family and friends, left us too soon on December 9, 2024, leaving a gap in our hearts that can never be filled. A charismatic and witty presence, Rick, was known for his contagious laughter, his supportive nature, and his ability to light up a room. Born in McAllen, Texas, he graduated from Mission High School in 1998. He served his country in the Marine Corps as an avionics technician working on the H-1 and Cobra helicopters, earning several medals and honors for his service, including the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, and the Rifle Qualification Badge (sharpshooter). During his service, he was deployed to Iraq, serving valiantly in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He later graduated from East Carolina University and began working for the federal government as a Logistics Manager for the VH-92 program and was currently the Deputy Program Manager in logistics for the F-5 program.

Rick's love for sports, especially baseball was as fervent as his dedication to his work. He found joy in coaching his son's little league team, teaching his daughter softball, and spending time outdoors hunting and fishing. He was also an ardent fan of his ECU Pirates, enjoying many football and baseball games with family and friends. He enjoyed the companionship of his dog, Cooper, a good cigar, and a refreshing glass of bourbon from time to time.

His love for the majesty and beauty of the mountains was only surpassed by his love for his family. A man of faith, Rick was a member of First Baptist Church of New Bern. His faith was a guiding light in his life and he lived by the Biblical verse, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." (Proverbs 3:5).

Rick is survived by his loving wife Rebecca Sanchez, whom he married on October 4, 2008, and their two beautiful children, Alexander and Emery Sanchez. He also leaves behind his parents, Jose and Arcelia Sanchez, and his mother-in-law, Debbie Horn, his father-in-law, Reggie Faggart and his brother-in-law, Michael Faggart. He was preceded in death by his stepfather-in-law, Michael Horn.

Rick was a steadfast pillar of strength for his family, a loving husband, a supportive father, and a faithful son. Though he could sometimes be stubborn, his family knew it was only a testament to his unwavering dedication and love for them. He will be remembered as a beacon of love, support, and joy to all who knew him.

Funeral service will be 11 a.m. on Monday, December 16, 2024 at First Baptist Church, 239 Middle Street, New Bern, NC 28560 with Dr. Richard Seagle officiating. He will be laid to rest with military honors at the Salisbury National Cemetery at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made in Rick's name to K9s for Warriors (www.donate.k9sforwarriors.org) or First Baptist Church of New Bern.

We invite all who knew and loved Rick to share their memories and upload photos on his memorial page. Your stories and pictures will help keep his spirit alive and comfort us in our grief. Let's celebrate Rick's life, remember his unique qualities and accomplishments, and treasure the moments we shared with him.

Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to care for the family and friends of Ricardo "Rick" Sanchez.