Brenda Marlene Sanchez Waite's Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister, wife and mother, Brenda Marlene Sanchez Waite. She is now singing with the angels.
She was born on June 25, 1973 in San Jose, California. She moved with her family to Tucson, Arizona, and at the age of 15 moved to Bakersfield California.
As a youth and young woman she excelled in several choirs, vocal ensembles, and as a soloist. She also shined bright on stage in musical theater.
While attending Bakersfield High School, she met the love of her life, Timothy Waite. They became “an item” immediately.
Her voice led to a scholarship at Cal State University, Bakersfield, where she excelled in her studies and in music. Her sweetheart, Tim, left for a two year mission to Japan for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
During this time, she began noticing symptoms of ALS. It was harder to walk, sing and do things that most people take for granted. At 19 years of age her doctors diagnosed Brenda with ALS. They predicted she would live for 3 to 5 years. But they didn’t know Brenda.
Two years later Brenda traveled to Japan with Tim’s parents. After Tim’s release he escorted Brenda to a beautiful Japanese garden where he proposed. Three months later they were married for eternity in the Los Angeles Temple on January 14, 1995.
Brenda was determined to finish college. Even with her declining health she earned a Bachelors Degree in Psychology at Cal State Bakersfield with honors, Summa Cum Laude. This would not have been possible without the assistance of her loving mother who drove her to school, pushed her wheelchair, took notes, and helped her with tests.
She continued to have health difficulties, but always remained hopeful and optimistic.
Her biggest goal in life was to become a mother. In January of 2008 she miraculously gave birth to a beautiful baby boy and he was the joy of her life. She lived every moment for Jesse and Tim.
Tim made it possible for her to travel to many places around the world making memories with her beautiful family. These memories will be cherished forever. Tim was Brendas rock star. He patiently and lovingly took care of her till her last breath!
Brenda was an incredible friend to everyone. She was a great listener and peacemaker and tried to always be an example to all. Brenda was an example of strength, love and forgiveness. Her wonderful gifts will always be missed. Brenda always thought of others before herself. She was a perfect example of a disciple of Christ and had a special personal relationship with Him. In her last moments she wanted everyone to be happy and wanted everyone to know she loved them.
She is survived by her parents, John and Marilyn Sanchez, husband Tim Waite, and son, Jesse Waite. She is also survived by her siblings and their spouses, Laura Lane (Tom), Mark Sanchez (Melissa), Teresa Johnson (Brian), Chris Sanchez (Cindy.) Brenda is also survived by Greg and Elizabeth Waite and family who have showed much love and kindness throughout the years. Her nieces and nephews on both sides of the family adored her. Despite her valiant and courageous battle, she ultimately succumbed to her 30-year struggle with ALS, surrounded by her family, on January 9, 2024.
The family would like to make sure that Tim knows how much we appreciate the sacrifices that he made to take care of Brenda during their twenty eight years of marriage. We love you Tim!
We are incredibly thankful for all those that helped with her medical care. Especially Heidi, Lindsay, and Isaac. She considered these people her friends.
Please join us to celebrate the life of Brenda Marlene Sanchez Waite
Tuesday, January 16
LDS chapel 353 E 400 N
Spanish Fork, Utah 84660
10am-10:45 Public Viewing
11 am Funeral Services in Chapel
12:30 (approximate) Gravesite
For those who wish to support funeral expenses, Jesse’s future, and or Tim’s reestablishment, you may simply donate via Venmo @TimW8 Venmo pin 3256
What’s your fondest memory of Brenda?
What’s a lesson you learned from Brenda?
Share a story where Brenda's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Brenda you’ll never forget.
How did Brenda make you smile?
