Kayla Kendra Romero Martinez, age 30, a beloved resident of Alcalde, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Kayla was born in Santa Fe to Andy and Amanda Romero. A proud 2014 graduate of Española Valley High School, she was a standout athlete in both volleyball and basketball and enjoyed softball. Her passion for volleyball took her to Bakersfield Community College, where she competed in both indoor and beach volleyball. Despite her height, Kayla’s incredible vertical jump allowed her to excel as a middle blocker, a testament to her determination and "never give up" spirit.

A woman of deep faith, Kayla loved the Lord Jesus with all her heart. She was known for her tireless work ethic and her commitment to helping others, serving her community as a caregiver, banker, and teacher’s assistant. Those who knew her will fondly remember her as a full spirted and adventurous individual who was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Kayla’s greatest joy and accomplishment was her son, Noah. She was a devoted mother who cherished every moment spent with him. She also shared a deep bond with her sisters, brother-in-law, nieces, nephews, and cousins, often playing sports or simply enjoying their company during birthdays and holidays.

Kayla was preceded in death by her grandparents, Antonio and Lillian Guillen, and Deluvina Sanchez. 

She is survived by her husband Carlos Martinez; son Noah Martinez and stepdaughter Dela Martinez; parents: Andy and Amanda Romero; siblings: Kimberly Sanchez (Julian) and Erica Romero; In-laws: David and Matilda Salazar, and Sister-in-law Crystal Sanchez (Joey); grandparents: Lauriano and Sofia Romero and Louis Sanchez; nieces and nephews: Aayden Romero, Isidro Sanchez, Adryan Romero, Porscha Sanchez, Jeremiah Sanchez (Lexi), and Samantha Sanchez; aunts and uncles: Veronica Guillen (Tony), Corina Vigil (Juan), Melanie Guillen-Montoya (Eloy), Alan Romero (Yvette), and Robert Aragon (Penny); Louise Sanchez, Harold Sanchez (Kathy), Marie Salazar, David Sanchez, Robert Sanchez (Melissa), Joseph Sanchez (Veronica) and Lawrence Sanchez; Godchildren: Adryan Romero, Porscha Sanchez, and Kyara Valdez-Ortiz; special great aunt Ernestine Herrera, as well as many other beloved extended family members.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the staff at St. Vincent Hospital, to all the family and friends for the overwhelming love and support during this difficult time. While our hearts are saddened, Kayla’s memory will remain with us forever.

A Public Viewing will take place on Thursday, April 30, 2026 at, 5:30, at the DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola, NM, with a Rosary at 6:00 pm. 

The Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 10:00 am at San Juan Bautista Catholic Church at Ohkay Owingeh, NM. Burial will take place following the mass at La Villita Cemetery in Alcalde, New Mexico.

Pallbearers: Julian Sanchez, Derrick Aragon, Anthony Valdez, Michael Aragon, Aaron Aragon, Matthew Vigil, and Jonathyn Montoya (Adam).

Honorary Pallbearers: Aayden Romero, Isidro Sanchez, Adryan Romero, Porscha Sanchez, Kyara Valdez-Ortiz, Adan Aragon, Marlene Valdez (Chris), Breanna Martinez, Cattaleya Valdez, Zacharyah Valdez, Tamara Montoya (Tristen), Santos Montoya, Skylie Montoya-Kuhn, Melissa Aragon, Lillianna Aragon, Arianna Aragon, Gabriel Aragon, Elianna Aragon, LeeAnn Vigil, Sadie Vigil, Carla Rodriguez-Gallegos, Christian Rodriguez, Billy Ray Aragon, Davina Aragon.

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