Martin J. Roybal, lovingly known by his family as “Sherm,” was born on April 2, 1958, in Las Vegas, New Mexico. He passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at his home in Española, New Mexico.

Martin was welcomed into eternal rest by his beloved parents, Marcello and Teresa Roybal; his brother, Henry Gutierrez; his brother-in-law, Leo “Lucky” Jaramillo; his close nephew and niece, Alfonso Jaramillo and Kimberly Cordova; and his cherished fur baby, Shaggy, whom he loved so very dearly.

He leaves behind a family who adored him: his sister, Clara Jaramillo Chapman; his nieces and nephews, Loretta (Dennis) Martinez, Denise (Gus) Jaramillo, Leo (Orlando) Jaramillo, Yvonne and Lisa Gutierrez; and his many great-nieces and great-nephews, Leian (Andrew) Romero and their children, Madysen and Paetyn; Fabian (Melissa) Atencio and their children, Kayliani and Ethan; Christopher (Nicole) Atencio and son Royce; Tony Cordova; Angelina and Enrique Gutierrez; and Crystal Ramos.

Martin is also lovingly remembered by Liza Archuleta and Manuel Otero, whom he helped raise and loved as his own children. He shared a special bond with his dear friends Nancy Garcia and Johnny L. Martinez, and he leaves behind his beloved cat, Azul.

Martin had a heart as big as the sky and was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His kindness, generosity, and gentle spirit touched so many lives. He created countless memories with his family and friends, memories that will be treasured forever. His passing leaves a tremendous void in our hearts, but we are forever grateful that God blessed us with his life and love. We will miss everything about him, his laugh, his presence, and the warmth he brought into every room.

For the past 13 years, Martin worked at Food King, where he built not only a career but lasting friendships. He was grateful for his amazing boss, Keith Garcia, his manager, Maria Gallegos, and all his beloved co-workers who became like extended family to him.

Martin was a lifelong fan of the Denver Broncos and the Colorado Rockies, cheering faithfully through every season. He had a true gift for gardening; his green thumb was undeniable. His yard, and Denise’s yard, were living proof of the care and pride he poured into everything he touched. He eagerly awaited spring each year so he could plant new flowers and rosebushes, nurturing them with patience and love. Christmas was just as special to him. He decorated his home and yard with joy, filling the season with light and warmth for everyone around him.

As we move forward without him, may we honor his memory in simple, beautiful ways. Take a moment to stop and smell the flowers, admire their beauty, and say a quiet prayer for Martin. And when Christmas lights shine brightly against the winter sky, may they remind us of him, the light who shone so brightly in all our lives.

Fly high with the angels, Martin. All our love to you, always.

Services are pending.

Serving as Pallbearers are Tony Cordova, Andrew Romero, Fabian and Christopher Atencio, Enrique Gutierrez, and Johnny L. Martinez.

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