Martin M. Martinez, ESQ, 76, a devoted family man, veteran, and lifelong servant to his community, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, February 22, 2026, following a brief illness. Born in Tooele, Utah, to Emijirio and Dolores Martinez, Martin was raised in Chamita, New Mexico by his mother and Samuel Martinez (stepfather), who have all preceded him in death.

Martin graduated from Espanola High School in 1968 and immediately enlisted in the military where he served as a Seargent in the US Army in Vietnam from 1968 – 1970. He was a Special Forces Green Baret and was awarded a Combat Infantry Badge and two bronze stars during his tour. Upon his return, he met and married Florence C. Rodriguez, with whom he shared many years and three beautiful children: Camille, Albert, and Ricardo.

Martin began his career in law enforcement with the Espanola Police Department in 1977 and served until 1982 including some time as Chief of Detectives. Further demonstrating his commitment to the justice system, he was accepted by the University of Arizona School of Law where he served as the President of the Minority Lawman’s Association and graduated with a law degree in 1985. He returned to devote his career to serving as an attorney in northern New Mexico and advised the City of Espanola as City Attorney from 2005 – 2007. His deep sense of duty later brought him out of retirement when he was called upon to serve as Interim Municipal Judge for the remainder of the term’s position through March of 2022.

While Martin led a distinguished and meaningful career, his true passions were his family, music, photography and travel. He spent many hours in his retirement creating a website dedicated to sharing local history and photography—a true love letter to the community he dedicated his life to. He captured and shared breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and community events across our beautiful Land of Enchantment, earning recognition for being an award-winning nature photographer in The Rio Grande Sun newspaper. He spent many years exploring the rugged Rocky Mountains with his sons, Albert and Ricardo, daughter-in-law Germel, and grandchildren, Zilthai, Nissi, and Zerahiah, enjoying family time in New Mexico’s vast natural beauty. In his final years, Martin traveled extensively across the United States with his daughter Camille, son-in-law Michael, and grandchildren, Aaron (Alyda), and Zoe (Erick) creating new and lasting memories and sharing his passion for adventure. He maintained a loyal and caring friendship with Florence and also shared a close and respectful bond with her spouse, Michael Martinez.

Martin was a man defined by resilience, strength and quiet grace. He loved deeply and loyally as a father, grandfather, brother, and friend instilling guidance, protection and unconditional support and love. He was preceded in death by his beloved sons Albert Martin Martinez and Ricardo Martin Martinez; siblings Delfin Martinez, Kathy Martinez, and Evelyn Weber; brother-in-law Gary Weber; nephew Delfin P. Martinez; and niece Kelly Ann Martinez.

Martin is survived by his beloved sister, Doris Padilla (Carlos), daughter, Camille Abriana Archuleta (Michael), daughter-in-law Germel Martinez; and his cherished grandchildren Aaron, Zoe, Zilthai, Nissi, and Zerahiah. He is survived by his brother-in-law Albert Mondragon; sister-in-law, Umelia Martinez, nephews and nieces including Christopher Martinez, Robert Trujillo, Crystal Garcia (Juan), Melinda Atencio (Juan), Gilbert Mondragon (Deandra), Sabrina Mondragon; his second wife, Joyce Marquez (Gene), and his dear lifelong friend, Robert Martinez, along with many other family members and close friends who will carry forward his memory. Martin’s life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his family, his country, and his community. His legacy of service, creativity, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.

 You may visit his website at www.martnmphotography.com 

A Public Viewing will take place at DeVargas Funeral Home on Friday, March 6, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., and a Memorial Service on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. The Burial will take place at Santa Fe National Cemetery on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

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