Joseph Max Martinez

Joseph Max Martinez, March 18, 1963-May 29, 2025

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph Max Martinez on May 29, 2025. He passed away peacefully with his wife, daughters, grandsons and sons-in-law by his side. Joe was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, he was called home to be with his Lord and Savior.

Raised in Chimayo, NM, Joe was known for his warm heart, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved. His family was his world, the very foundation of his life and the reason he lived with such purpose. His family gave him strength, meaning and joy. He lived each day guided by love and loyalty for them.

Joe was a hardworking man whose life was a testament to love, Faith and devotion. He found joy and purpose in reading the Bible and teaching the word of God to his kids and grandsons. He knew from where his strength came from, and it was only through his Lord & Savior, Jesus. Joe enjoyed gardening, and his passion was tending to the rose garden he planted especially for the love of his life, his wife which brought her constant joy.

He was preceded in death by his son James Medina; his parents Severiano and Bernie Martinez; in-laws Edward and Susie Medina; and son-in-law William Childers.

Joseph is survived by the love of his life for over 43 years, Claudelle Martinez; children, Anjolyn Martinez, Johanna and Larry Vigil, and JoRonda and Stephen Abeyta; grandson’s Ezerah and fiancé Mary, Josiah, Zeriah, and Zayden Martinez; siblings, Lillian Trujillo, Mardy (Berna) Martinez, Darlene (JR) Martinez, Jimmy (Theresa) Martinez, Eli Martinez Sr, and Toby (Sandra) Martinez; brothers & sisters-in-law, Joe & Robin Duran and John & Clara Ortega; godson, Michael Ortega (Shay); special nephew Eli Martinez Jr., who was like a little brother; and numerous nephews and nieces who he loved dearly.

Joe will be remembered for his deep love for his family. His legacy, hard work, and devotion will live on through his children, grandchildren and those who loved him dearly. His passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will forever live with us in all the beauty of God’s creation that we see around us daily.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 11:00 am at the Rock Christian Church in Espanola, NM. Burial will take place at a later date.

Serving as Honorary Pallbearers are Ezerah, Josiah, Zeriah, Zayden, Larry and Stephen.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of Del Corazon for their attentive care and support. A special note of gratitude to Nurse Lynn Jacquez for her exceptional care, not only for Joe, but for our entire family, your kindness and dedication will never be forgotten. We are also deeply thankful for Chaplain Daniel Arrellano, who was a great friend and special person in his life.

Thank you to Pastor Mike and Sister Gloria Naranjo for being his spiritual leaders and friends.

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