Maria Elena Fraga Martinez

Maria Elena Martinez (“Sunshine”), loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away at home on December 17, 2017. She was born on December 22, 1923 and was a life-long resident of El Paso, Texas.

Throughout her entire life, Maria Elena embodied a profound love and dedication to the Catholic Church, family and friends. Her devotion to the Catholic Church began at an early age and was nurtured by her parents and her St. Joseph Academy education. She will always be remembered for her gracious spirit, compassion for others, and strong family values she inspired. We will fondly remember the many Martinez home gatherings where she warmly welcomed friends and family. We are blessed beyond measure for all the years we shared with mom. Her guiding light will continue to live in all of us.

She is preceded in death by Manuel Martinez, her loving husband of 68 years, parents Jose and Elvira Fraga, brothers Jose, Guillermo, Ramon, Jesus and Carlos, and two sons Dr. Jaime Martinez and Eduardo Martinez. She is survived by her sister Elvira Wardy, her daughter Norma Sugawa (George), her sons, Adrian Martinez (Josie), Dr. Ruben Martinez, six grandchildren (Jason, Clarisa, Melanie, Rene, Alezandra, and Alyssa), and six great-grandchildren ( Lucy, Carter, Milo, Millie, Zoe, and Zadie).

Rosary services will be held on December 22 at 7:00 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home West-Chapel. A mass celebrating her life will be held on December 23 at 9:30 a.m. at Queen of Peace Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Monastery of the Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, 145 N. Cotton, El Paso, Texas 79901.