Billie Jo Sanchez, 36, of Flagstaff, died Saturday July 21, 2012 at Flagstaff Medical Center after a long courageous fight with cancer. She exhibited great reserves of strength and endurance.

She was born in York, PA, daughter of Andy and Debbie (Spahr) Turner, grew up in Parks, AZ and graduated from Flagstaff High School.

Billie had an exuberant personality and made friends easily wherever she went. She had a beautiful, unique sense of style, much like her personality; bright, flowing and bold. She had beautiful, striking red hair. She was never afraid to stand out.

Billie was very creative and had many interests. She was a gifted writer and also enjoyed painting and creating beaded works of art. Her family and friends treasure the gifts they have received over the years from the work of her hands.

Billie's greatest joy was being a mom to daughters Katelynn and Michaela, and son Logan Sanchez. The home Billie created for herself and her children was a place where they felt loved, safe, secure, and free to be themselves. They shared a love of creativity, reading and music. Billie was not only their mother; she was their friend and confidant. She taught them to be confident, compassionate, forgiving and brave. The values she instilled in them will last a lifetime.

In addition to Katelynn, Michaela, and Logan, survivors include brother Andrew Turner, Flagstaff, Grandfather Howard Turner, Parks, AZ, step-mother Judy Turner, La Quinta, CA, Uncle Jim Turner, Monkton, MD, Aunts Rosie Ringer, Florence, AZ, and Mary Renfrow, Parks, AZ.

Billie touched many lives; she will be missed by all.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, July 28 at Lozano's Flagstaff Mortuary, 2545 N. Fourth Street.