Phil Martinez

Phil T. Martinez, age 88, of Chimayó, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025.

Phil was born and raised in El Guache, NM, where he spent his early years before marrying the love of his life, Esther, at age 20. Together they built a home in Chimayó, with the help of his brothers-in-law Eddie and Nelson, and it was there that they raised their family and built a beautiful life together.

Phil began working at a young age, just 13, spending summers in California picking fruit and vegetables while living with his uncle. Over the years, he held various jobs before finding long-term employment at the New Mexico State Penitentiary in Santa Fe. After ten years there, he began his career at Los Alamos National Laboratory, where he worked until his retirement, proud of the long and dedicated career he built.

Phil met Esther at a dance, and after a year of courtship, they were married, a partnership that lasted an incredible 69 years. Together they shared countless memories, laughter, and a deep devotion to their family.

Phil loved sports, both playing and watching. He enjoyed playing basketball and volleyball, and in retirement he discovered a passion for bowling, joining a league in Española that quickly became one of his favorite pastimes.

Known for his friendly, outgoing nature and sharp sense of humor, Phil could start a conversation with anyone. His laugh was infectious, and his presence could light up any room. He was a storyteller at heart and enjoyed sharing stories with his friends and family. One of his favorite things were his beloved Westerns, whether on TV or in books.

Above all, Phil loved his family deeply. He and Esther were devoted grandparents, helping babysit several of their grandchildren and taking great joy in being part of their daily lives.

He was joined in passing, 6 days later, by his wife of 69 years, Esther Martinez; He was preceded in death by his parents Benita and Filiberto Martinez; sisters Lorraine Herrera, Theresa Aranda, and Orelia Castillo; brother and sister-in-law Eloy and Connie Martinez; brothers-in-law Nelson Martinez and Rudy Martinez; sister-in-law Della Thompson, and his in-laws Trinidad Martinez and Esquipula Martinez.

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

Phil is also survived by his sister Yolanda Martinez; brothers-in-law Eddie Martinez (Elsie), Ben Herrera, and Robert Velasquez; and sister-in- law Maida Martinez. He is also survived by his wife’s half-brothers and half-sisters, Robert Martinez, David Martinez, Benny Martinez, Joe Martinez (Patty), Johnny Martinez (Geraldine), and Sammy Martinez (Naomi), Eddie Martinez (Thea) and sisters-in-law Martha Trujillo (Orlando), and Angie Martinez. As well as numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Phil’s kindness, humor, and love of family will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be missed tremendously.

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

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