Tributes

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Salena Rose Sanchez on January 14, 2025, at the young age of 30. Born on August 31, 1994, in San Antonio, Texas, Salena was the daughter of Lillian Prado and Juan Sanchez. She is survived by her sisters, Natalie, Valerie, and Lillian; her brothers-in-law, Jason and Javier; her godparents, Delia and Henry; as well as dozens of aunts, uncles, cousins; her lifelong friends, Sara, Valerie, Amanda and Emerald; and her pup, Marley. Salena’s legacy lives on through her beloved nephews, Jaxon and Myles, and her niece, Zoe, who were the light of her life. She now joins her grandparents Rafael and Sara Sanchez, and Bertha and Jesus Gonzalez in rest. Salena’s warmth and generosity extended beyond her family to the many friends, colleagues, classmates, and students she worked with throughout her life. As an educator at Armstrong Elementary, Salena poured her heart into shaping young minds, inspiring both her students and fellow teachers with her passion for learning and her unyielding commitment to making a difference. She was a teacher at Armstrong Elementary for 5 years. In her time there, she was awarded the South San ISD District Teacher of the Year (2023-2024), formed the "Kind Kids Club", and was affiliated with 'Cultivar' at the Tobin Center in partnership with the Kennedy Center of Performing Arts. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education from UTSA and will be awarded a Masters of Education School Leadership posthumously from Trinity University. Her goal was to work in curriculum and eventually become a principal. Salena was constantly volunteering at her school, helping with the haunted house, spelling bees, and additional tutoring. She absolutely adored her students and wanted them all to know she was so proud of them. While receiving treatment, her class received the perfect attendance award in honor of Ms. Sanchez. Salena also received the Trinity Prize for Excellence in Teaching, recognizing her for being the best educator in her district in 2024. Receiving all of these awards allowed Salena to ride on top of her school's Fiesta float, a fun memory she used to look back on fondly. Salena’s love for life, her family, and her students never wavered, and her memory will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She had a sense of humor that kept her family and friends laughing for hours. She enjoyed teasing her family as a way of showing love, but she was also very caring. Her caring nature rang true throughout her whole life as she was a beacon of light and strength for her sisters through thick and thin. Salena was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, godmother, teacher, and friend, whose life touched so many people with love, kindness, and joy. May Salena rest in peace, knowing that her legacy of love, care, and dedication will continue to shine brightly in the lives of all she touched. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.

Tributes

Salena Rose Sanchez

August 31, 1994 - January 14, 2025