Mary Anne Martinez passed away on May 24, 2022 after battling a long-term illness. She was born in Roswell, New Mexico on July 4,1954 to Jose and Mary (Solorio) Martinez. Mary was as bright and welcoming as the colors she loved. She was fiercely protective of her family, determined, independent, kind and joyful.
Mary possessed a servant heart and began her volunteer service as a Candy Striper. This opportunity solidified her desire to enter the nursing field and she began her nursing career as a nurse’s aide in Pueblo, Colorado. She studied to become a Licensed Practical Nurse and ultimately, earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (Registered Nurse). Mary worked in many different health care settings eventually retiring from a senior care facility in Lakewood.
Mary loved to travel and visited many places in the United States, Israel, Haiti and South Africa. The situations of the homeless, the poor, children and the aged impacted her greatly and she dedicated herself to helping them. Mary and her dear friend, Peggy Kastning, began a charitable organization named The Urban Angels. This organization’s motto is, “Touching one heart at a time,” and Mary did exactly that. She sewed “pillow case” dresses for girls in Haiti, collected clothing for children in Peru and crocheted hats for the homeless and cancer patients, among other activities. She truly touched many hearts and will be greatly missed.
Mary was preceded in death by parents, Jose and Mary, sister, Deborah, brother, William, sister-in-law, Linda and nephew, Carlos. She is survived by her siblings, José (Joanna), Bob (Nancy) and Rebecca Martínez, along with numerous loving nieces, nephews, family.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity in honor of Mary Martinez.
A celebration of life for Mary will be held Saturday, June 18, 2022 at 2:00 PM at Olinger Highland, followed by a reception at 3:00 PM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.olingerhighland.com for the Martinez family.
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