Benito (Benny) Martinez, 96, of Temple went to his heavenly home on June 28, 2026. He left this earth as he lived - quietly and peacefully while listening to daily Mass surrounded by love and family.

Benito was born on June 24, 1930 in Anton Chico New Mexico to Casiano and Vicenta Martinez.

He enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Korean War wherein he received numerous combat commendations. To be recognized with his brothers in arms was the honor of his life.

Being a depression era child Benito started working early and held many interesting jobs in his lifetime. From a bus boy at the Historic Harvey House in Clovis NM to an orderly at Memorial Hospital. From meter reader for the Southern Union Gas Company before his career with Atchison Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad and several jobs in between - keeping busy and hard work was his constant goal.

However, if work kept him busy, his faith was what kept him going. His family never walked out the door without a blessing and a reminder that he was always praying for us. A quiet man who carried his burdens close to the vest his faith gave him peace that surpassed understanding. What Benito couldn't convey in words he showed with his hands and his heart. Volunteering at his parish, Our Lady of Guadalupe in Clovis, he assisted with whatever was needed. No job was too big or too small. He ushered during mass, worked the floor selling flip tickets on Bingo nights, and volunteered on church remodeling projects - he and his crew were so diligent that Father had to remind them it was time to stop working for the day. The joy he received from giving to his parish filled his soul. In much the same way, helping his children filled his heart. He helped raise barns, put up and mend fence, do builds, take downs, paint, haul, clean up, move - whatever was needed, he provided.

He was fast with a jest or a smile and a lucky scratch off would catch his attention quick. In his younger years he enjoyed hunting in the New Mexico woodlands. He delighted in telling stories of his hunting days and the friends he made along the way. He was a boxer in the Golden Gloves Tournament circuit and during his service years, represented the US Army 19th Infantry lightweight division. He remained a boxing fan for the rest of his life. He took great joy in raising animals: goats, pigs, sheep and cattle. He made light work of tending to God's creatures and doing so brought him much happiness.

He leaves behind a lifelong legacy of hard work, loyalty and strong faith. There will never be another like him.

He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings; Sylvia Vigil, Mary Esquibel and Casiano Martinez.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Adela (Baca) Martinez; children Michael (Mary), Barbara Grohmann (Aaron), Ben, Ralph (Marta), David and Delores. Grandchildren; Kaitlyn, Case, Kristan, Jared, Jade, Kris and Nikki. Also his brother Pete (Aneda) of Las Lunas, NM.

In leu of flowers donations may be made to Baylor Scott & White Hospice - Temple.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 2, from 6 to 8 PM at Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Temple, Texas. A rosary will take place at 9AM on Friday, July 3, at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Temple, Texas with a 10:00AM funeral Mass to follow. After services, burial will take place at Bellwood Cemetery in Temple, Texas.