Jerry G. Martinez

Jerry G. Martinez June 26, 1949 - June 6, 2026 Jerry G. Martinez, age 76, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on June 26, 1949, in Belen, New Mexico, Jerry dedicated his life to serving others through education, faith, and family. A lifelong public-school educator, he faithfully served the Belen Consolidated Schools for 30 years, touching the lives of countless students, colleagues, and families throughout his distinguished career. His commitment to learning, mentorship, and community left a lasting impact that will be remembered for generations. He was a devoted member of Our Lady of Belen Catholic Church, where he actively participated in parish life and generously shared his time and talents. His deep Catholic faith guided him throughout his life, and he was involved in numerous Catholic ministries within the community. Through his service, compassion, and dedication to helping others, Jerry became a respected and beloved presence in the parish and beyond. Above all, Jerry cherished his family. He shared 40 loving years of marriage with his beloved wife, Eva, whose partnership and companionship were among the greatest blessings of his life. He took immense pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and treasured every opportunity to gather with family and celebrate life's milestones. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Marcos G. and Rosenda A. Martinez. He is survived by his wife, Eva; his children, Renee Martinez, Carla Martinez, Ann Marie (Robert) Chavez, Denee (Shannon) Golliheair, and Derek (Stephanie) Crnkovich; his ten grandchildren, Taylor, Bailee, Olivia, Jeremiah, Gavin, Sophia, Dalton, Dylon, Logan and Daxton, and six great-grandchildren, Kasen, Callen, Jose, Cash, Memphis and Meadow. Jerry is also survived by his siblings, Evangeline Martinez, Monico (Kathy) Martinez, Ramon (Betty) Martinez, Joe Mercy (Anna) Martinez, Irene (Donald) Garcia, and Bernadette Martinez, as well as by numerous loving nieces and nephews. Jerry will be remembered for his dedication to education, his unwavering faith, his commitment to serving others, and the love he shared with family and friends. His legacy lives on in the many lives he influenced in the classroom, his parish, and throughout the community he loved. His grandsons will serve as pallbearers, a fitting tribute to a grandfather whose love, guidance, and example helped shape their lives. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former students, fellow parishioners, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), also known as Blood Cancer United, in Jerry's memory. "Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23