Obituary

Jesús Alberto Sánchez, 72, passed peacefully on Monday, December 1, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Stroudsburg, surrounded by the love of his family after a lifetime devoted to service, learning, and helping others.

Born on November 21, 1953, at Bellevue Hospital in Manhattan, New York City, Jesús was the beloved son of Josefa Rodríguez and Rafael Sánchez. He grew up in a large and lively family and is survived by his siblings Gladys, Phyllis, Richie, Rafael, Ángel, Judy, Paul, Jorge, and Johnny, along with many nieces, nephews, and extended relatives who held him dear.

Jesús built a strong and loving life with his wife, Jacqueline Sánchez, and together they raised four children, Daniela, Alyssa, Daniel, and Angel Sánchez, who were the truest reflection of his pride and purpose. He was also a devoted grandfather to Royalty Pérez-Sánchez, and lovingly bonded with the family dog, Koda Marcus Granchez.

A Distinguished Career of Service

Jesús was a highly accomplished social worker, counselor, administrator, and educator. He earned degrees from Hunter College, Adelphi University, The University of the State of New York, and completed doctoral studies at Fordham University School of Social Work. He was a Licensed Social Worker and a National Board Certified Counselor / Professional Counselor.

Over more than four decades, he held leadership and clinical roles that shaped communities, supported the vulnerable, and strengthened countless lives. His work included:

• Director & Primary Counselor, Monroe County Counseling Services (2011–2025)

• Clinical and Counseling Positions at A Better Today, Salvation Army, Lakewood Partial Hospitalization, Visiting Nurse Services of NY, and NYC Homecare Services

• Vice President & Associate Director, NYC Health & Hospitals Corporation

• District Director, U.S. Small Business Administration (NJ)

• Commissioner / First Deputy Administrator, NYC Human Services Department

• Guest Lecturer, Fordham University

Jesús dedicated himself to drug and alcohol treatment, minority advocacy, social welfare, and empowering underserved communities. He approached his work with depth, conviction, and a commitment to justice that defined his life’s mission.

The Man We Remember

Jesús had a brilliant mind and a multitude of passions. He loved reading above all—his home and office were filled with books from floor to ceiling. He also enjoyed politics, singing, listening to music, playing the congas and bongos, the piano, tennis, and bowling.

He possessed a strong personality and was known for being direct and to the point, honest, and unafraid to speak the truth when it mattered. He cared deeply for others, stood up for the underprivileged, and was steadfast in defending the Latino and minority communities. He was wise, funny, and deeply committed to seeing the people around him grow and succeed.

His legacy is one of compassion, strength, integrity, and unwavering purpose.

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Mass & Family Celebration

A memorial service will be held on:

Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 11:00 AM

Church of Saint Luke

818 Main Street

Stroudsburg, PA 18360

Jesús will be remembered as a devoted counselor, brother, uncle, friend, husband, father, grandfather, advocate, scholar, and leader whose impact will continue through the many lives he touched.