With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dolores Leal-Martinez, a beloved wife, mother, and educator, who was called home to the Lord on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at the age of 62, after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Born on April 20, 1962, Dolores touched countless lives through her unwavering dedication and passion for education.
Dolores spent 36 impactful years teaching in the Sanger Unified School District, where she devoted herself to the growth and development of young children in preschool, transitional kindergarten, and kindergarten. Her warmth and compassion left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to be in her classroom. She firmly believed in the philosophy that "everything you need to know you learned in kindergarten," and her teaching reflected this timeless wisdom.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dolores cherished her role as a wife and mother. She was married to her husband, Ovidio Martinez Jr., and together they raised two remarkable daughters, Primavera and Estrella, who were the light of her life. Dolores was the quintessential "debate mom" and "theater mom," attending every tournament, game, and performance with enthusiasm and pride. Her strong spirit and nurturing love continue to live on in her daughters, who carry forward her legacy of kindness and strength.
Dolores leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her family and friends, who will miss her dearly. She is survived by her loving mother, Guillermina Garcia Leal, and her devoted siblings: Lydia Garcia Leal of Reedley; Juan Garcia Leal, Jr. and his wife, Veronica, of Clovis; and Francisco Garcia Leal and his wife, Priscilla, of Clovis. Her two nephews, Juan Quintana Leal, III, and Jarran Quintana Leal of Clovis will fondly remember their beloved aunt and the joy she brought to their lives.
Dolores is reunited in Heaven with her father, Juan Peña Leal, and her infant sister, Mariana, where their spirits find peace together.
A social butterfly, Dolores celebrated her life with nearly 300 friends and family members in the days before her passing. Inspired by the book Tuesdays with Morrie, this gathering was a testament to the countless lives she touched and the love she inspired in everyone she met. Dolores’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to education will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing this special woman. Even though we will miss her very much, as the title of her favorite children’s book says: Everything Will Be Okay.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Care staff and Dr. Rao for their compassionate care and support during Dolores's illness.
A visitation for Dolores will be held on Thursday, August 15th, from 4 to 6 pm, followed by a Recitation of the Holy Rosary at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns, and Blair Funeral Home, 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno, CA 93720.
A Mass of Christian Burial service will take place on Friday, August 16th, at 10 am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 2590 E. North Ave, Sanger, CA 93657, with burial following at Reedley Cemetery, 2185 S. Reed Ave, Reedley, CA 93654.
Family and friends are invited to view Dolores’s legacy at www.whitehurstsullivan.com.
