Esther Mary Martinez

Esther M. Martinez, age 87, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother of Chimayó, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025, after a lengthy illness.

Esther was born on September 6, 1938, in Española and raised in Chimayó. Always a bright and dedicated student, she graduated high school as her class Salutatorian. She began her career as a laboratory technician at Española Hospital and later worked as an office administrator for several physicians in the Española Valley. Though she enjoyed her work, the roles she cherished most were those of wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

After meeting the love of her life, Phil, at a dance in Española, the two were married just a year later, when Esther was just 19. Together they built a beautiful life raising a family, creating a loving home, and sharing 69 wonderful years of marriage. Their devotion to one another was a true example of enduring love, and it remained unbroken until the very end.

Esther loved nothing more than having her family around her. She found joy in cooking for them, especially her homemade bread and red chile, dishes she was asked to bring to every family gathering. She remained a devoted member of her church community and taught catechism for several years. She never missed a chance to check in with her children; her daily phone calls were her way of making sure everyone was cared for. Family was the heart of her life, and she gave her whole heart to them in return.

Esther was preceded in death by her loving husband of 69 years, Phil, who passed just six days before her. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Trinidad and Esquipula Martinez; her brother Nelson Martinez; sisters-in-law Lorraine Herrera, Teresa Aranda, and Orelia Castillo; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Eloy and Connie Martinez; brother-in-law Rudy Martinez; half-sister Della Thompson; and her in-laws Benita and Filiberto Martinez.

Esther is survived by her children: Shirley Baca (Leo), Cindy Martinez (Walter), Michelle Lopez (Andrew), and Larry Martinez (Esther); and her seven grandchildren: Melanie Baca (York), Amy Baca, Megan Martinez, Lianne Martinez, Matthew Martinez, Kailee Lopez, and Eric Lopez. She is also survived by her three great-grandchildren: Shay, Sylvie, and Avery.

She is additionally survived by her brother Eddie Martinez (Elsie); brothers-in-law Ben Herrera and Robert Velasquez; sisters-in-law Maida Martinez and Yolanda Martinez; and by her half-brothers and half-sisters: Robert Martinez, David Martinez, Benny Martinez, Joe Martinez (Patty), Johnny Martinez (Geraldine), Sammy Martinez (Naomi), Eddie Martinez (Thea); and sisters Martha Trujillo (Orlando) and Angie Martinez. She leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

Esther’s selflessness, warmth, and generous spirit touched everyone who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion that will continue to guide her family for generations to come.

Rosary and Funeral Service will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, at Holy Family Parish in Chimayó, NM. The Rosary will begin at 1:00 pm, followed by the Funeral Service at 2:00 p.m.

The family of Esther Martinez has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.  505-747-7477