Elvira "Vira" Martinez Sanchez, 91, of Bay City, passed away Thursday, May 22, 2008 in Houston, TX. She was born September 29, 1916 in Bloomington, TX to Joaquin Vega Martinez and Tomasita Perez Martinez. She was a resident of Bay City since 1954 and was retired from the Laundry Department of Matagorda General Hospital. She was a member and past president of the Gulf Coast Senior Citizens League and member of Metropolis. She was an active member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Bay City, serving in the churches Home, Eucharist and Rosary Ministries, and a member of the Legion of Mary where she received the "Life Award". She enjoyed visiting with relatives at family reunions, weddings and any occasion that brought them together as family.

Elvira was united in marriage to the late Atanacio Sanchez on May 15, 1939. Everyone she touched lovingly knew her as "Vira". Their marriage was blessed with six children: Maria Dolores, Mario, Juanita, David, Hilda and Mary. When God said go and multiply, she really followed His advice – having 21 Grandchildren, 54 Great Grandchildren and 13 Great-Great Grandchildren.

The Rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM Monday, May 26, 2008 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. The Funeral Mass will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, May 27, 2008 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City.

Please join the family for a reception, immediately following the service, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church Hall.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, TX (979) 245-4613.