Jose Maria “Joe Mary” Martinez, born on October 10, 1930 passed away at his home in Capulin, New Mexico on September 17, 2025, surrounded by his family, he was 94 years old. He was born outside of Des Moines, New Mexico. Joe Mary grew up during a time when life demanded resilience and resourcefulness. Those early lessons carried him through nearly a century of change, but at his core he remained steadfast – a man who built his life on faith, family and hard work.
Above all he was a family man. He married Margaret Cruz in 1951 and celebrated 64 years of marriage. Margaret was the love of his life and the center of his world. Together they raised their 5 children, building a home filled with love, faith and values of kindness and respect. Joe Mary was a kind, loving and strong father. He was a fun, silly and adventurous Grandpa. His grandchildren gave him many nicknames such as Gramps, Grandpa Joe, Jackson, Papa Joe and Grandpa Joe Joe to name a few. He took pride in his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, always reminding them to hold onto their heritage while making their own way in life. Family gatherings around his table were full of good food, lots of laughter and good stories. He loved music, dancing, and playing the guitar. He worked for the Morrow Ranch then moved to a different ranch south of Capulin named Circle Bar (also known as The Cowan Ranch) during his ranching years. At both jobs Joe Mary made many friends that turned into family. Concurrently, he also drove a school bus for the Des Moines Municipal School District. After the Cowan Ranch was sold, Joe Mary worked at the Cinder Pit near Des Moines then finished off his career with the New Mexico State Highway Department.
He is preceded in death by his wife, parents, 3 brothers, 1 sister and 1 son-in-law. Joe Mary is survived by 3 sisters and 5 children Joetta Foster, Tolo (Belle) Martinez, Cindy Martinez, Monica (Leonard) Vigil and Joseph “Dudy” (Debbie) Martinez. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
The Martinez Family wishes to extend gratitude to Robin Pilley for her kind and compassionate care to Joe Mary and his family and for community support in his final days.
Recitation of the Most Holy Rosary will be on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at 10:00 am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Folsom, New Mexico, followed by the Mass of Resurrection at 10:30 am with Father Joji Reddy Konala as the Celebrant.
Arrangements and celebration of love for Joe Mary Martinez are under the direction of Alderette-Pomeroy Funeral Home.
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