Maria San Juanita Martinez

Maria San Juanita Martinez, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Monday, September 18, 2023, in Temple, Texas. She was born on January 22, 1944, in the town of Rosebud, Texas to the late Epifanio and Eva Vela. Maria's kind heart and gentle spirit touched the lives of all who knew her.

Maria dedicated her life to serving others. She worked at the VA Hospital, and also served the community working at Bethune Elementary School until retirement. Family always held a special place in Maria's heart. She cherished spending time with her loved ones and created beautiful memories that will be forever cherished. Maria enjoyed painting, gardening, crocheting, sewing, and crafting. She poured her creativity into making unique shirts for each season for her family and friends. Her handmade creations were a testament to both her talent and the deep love she held for those she cared about. In addition to her artistic endeavors, Maria devoted herself to volunteering for Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Temple. As an active member of the church community, she served as a food service attendant during church functions and lovingly prepared meals for bereaved members. Maria always sought opportunities to serve others selflessly.

Maria is survived by her loving husband of 62 beautiful years Roy Martinez Sr., daughter Rita Martinez, brothers Frank Santos, Jr., and Joseph Vela, sister Maria Del Carmen Gonzales, grandchildren Michael Anthony Martinez, Ashley Freund, Matthew Freund, Christina Caranza, Brittany Perez, Rebecca Martinez, Jonathan Martinez, Nathaniel Martinez, and Benjamin Martinez; great-grandchildren Aiden Rodriguez, Jordan Dezern Jr., Brayden Freund, Karina Carranza, and Matthew Freund Jr., and a cherished circle of friends. She is preceded by her parents, brothers Severiano Arenas, and Alejandro Vela, son Roy Martinez, Jr., and daughter Mary Esther Freund.

Maria's memory will be honored at the Harper-Talasek Funeral Home located at 500 W Barton Ave in Temple, Texas. A time of visitation will be held from 5-7 pm Tuesday, September 26, 2023, with a Holy Rosary recited at 7 pm. Funeral services will take place Wednesday, September 27, 2023, at 10 am at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Temple. Burial will follow at Temple Garden of Memories.

Maria San Juanita Martinez was a beacon of light in the lives of those she knew. Her kindness and generosity touched countless hearts and inspired others to live with compassion and love. She leaves behind a legacy of selflessness and devotion that will continue to guide her family and friends for generations to come. In this time of mourning, let us come together to celebrate Maria's remarkable life and remember the joy she brought into our lives. Though we mourn her loss today, let us also find solace in knowing that she is dancing among the stars, forever watching over us with love and grace. May her beautiful soul rest in eternal peace.