Mary was born to Eliodoro Rodriguez and Trinidad Saldivar Rodriguez in San Antonio, Texas, on July 2, 1921 and was the oldest of 14 children. After completing the 8th grade, she went to work for the Mexican Christian Institute as a teacher’s aide. She joined the Mexican Christian Church, where she met the love of her life, Nick O. Martinez, and they married in 1943.
With Nick serving in the Air Force, their early life found them stationed in Texas, Japan, California and Florida. At their final duty rotation in Ft. Bliss, Texas, they found their permanent home in the Sun City. Mary was very involved in the NCO Rocker Wives Club, becoming president of the organization. A woman of great faith, she was a member of the William Beaumont Chapel for more than 50 years. At the age of 65, she reached a life-long goal of completing her education and earning her associates degree at El Paso Community College. With a natural head for business, Mary developed a great aptitude for real estate, investing in and managing several residential rental properties. One of her great joys was the flowers she maintained around her home. Her family – both near and far - meant everything to her, and she to them.
She was preceded in death by her husband Nick O. Martinez, and sons Nick R. Martinez and Nick O. Martinez, Jr. She is survived by her daughters: Rose Mary Brutcher (Alan), Mary Rachel Martinez, Anna Banales (Xavier), Mona Estrada and Mary Esther Martinez; Siblings: Eliodoro Rodriguez, Alfredo Rodriguez, Margarita Guzman, Elia Ramos and Enriqueta Ortiz; Six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and six great-great grandchildren. She also has numerous “adopted” sons and daughters whose lives she touched with her kindness, generosity and compassion.
Mary counted her blessings each day and loved life. Her daily mantra was “Every morning that my feet reach the floor, I say ‘Thank you, Lord, for another day of life!’”
Visitation will be Monday, January 27, 2020 from 5 to 9pm at Funeraria Del Angel Central, 3839 Montana Ave. Chapel Service will be Tuesday, January 28, 2020 at 9:30am at Funeraria Del Angel Central followed by interment at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave. at 11:00am.
