Maria G. Martinez

Maria Martinez, 86, was called home by our Heavenly Father on March 20, 2014. Maria was the hardworking matriarch of her family, ensuring her eight children were nurtured and guided to become successful adults. She was a talented and sought after seamstress and knew how to cure almost every illness with a home remedy. She leaves her family with fond memories of Christmases at her home; her children and grandchildren enjoying the abundance of tamales, buñuelos, and menudo she always prepared for them. She was a woman of great faith and believed that the foundation of a prosperous family was trust in God. She served her church, Our Lady of the Light, with great love and humility.

Maria is preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Rafael J. Martinez and is survived by her brother, Martin Gallardo of El Paso, Texas, Children: Rafael Martinez (Roberta), Leonor Martinez , Juan Martinez, Elvira Salazar (Eduardo), Elida Rivas (Joe),Rosa Cervantes (Bert), Jose Martinez (Raquel), Delia Riggin (Michael); Grandchildren : Albert, Chris, Andrea, Diana, Camille, Steven, John, Ivan, Jessica ,Michael, Erik, Jacklyn, Marissa, Jacob, James and numerous great grandchildren.

Special thanks to the team at CIMA hospice for their constant guidance to family members and care of our mother during her time of need; Claudia (head nurse), Mary (nurse), Socorro (daily care), Carlos (Chaplain) and Juanita (Caseworker). We are forever grateful to her caregivers Mari and Chayo. Visitation will be Monday, march 24, 2014 from 5:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. at Martin Funeral Home Central, 3839 Montana Ave. with the Vigil at 6:00 P.M. Funeral Mass will be Tuesday, march 25, 2014 at 10:00 A.M. at Our Lady of the Light Catholic Church. Interment at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.