Gloria Christine Martinez (Lucero)

In Loving Memory of Gloria Christine Martinez (Lucero)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gloria Christine Martinez (Lucero), a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who departed this world on September 26, 2024, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Born in Santa Fe, NM, Gloria embraced the vibrant culture and spirit of the Southwest throughout her life. Her love for family, creativity, and unwavering generosity defined her life and touched the hearts of everyone who knew her.

Gloria is survived by her only daughter, Dr. LeAnne Christine Salazar Montoya (Jemuel), and her cherished grandchildren, Jonathan Isaiah, Antonio Leroy, and LilyAnne Christine, all of whom were the light of her life. She was deeply devoted to them, showering them with endless love and guiding them with wisdom and kindness. Gloria's family meant everything to her.

Preceded in death by her daughter's father Jonathan "Leroy" Salazar, father Chris Martinez, mother Jessie Martinez, her brothers Eddie Griego, Joe Griego, Andy Martinez, and Ernie Martinez, and her sisters Tillie Moya, Mary Hebb, and Isabel Alves (Jim). She is survived by her siblings Ralph Griego, Ted Martinez (Pattie), and Martha Perez (Mike), and many nieces and nephews. Her bonus sister Gloria Chavez who assisted with mom's care until the very end. To her Godchildren Mary, Jonathan, and Angelo, she loved you and prays for your health and wellbeing.

Gloria was a woman of many talents, from her successful career as a stockbroker to her artistic spirit, which reflected the beauty she saw in the world around her. One of her lifelong dreams was to own a farm, and while that dream remained unfulfilled, she brought the essence of farm life into her home. Her kitchen, adorned with a charming farm theme, was a testament to her creativity and the joy she found in life's simple pleasures. Gloria's love for the outdoors and her passion for teaching her family, including the treasured art of making tortillas, created lasting memories that will be cherished forever.

Her boundless generosity, selflessness, and kindness were hallmarks of her character. Gloria would give everything she had, including the shirt off her back, to ensure the well-being of those she loved. Her spirit of giving and her love for her family and community left a profound impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Kindness was her weakness, but as the Gates of heaven open, we know no good deed goes unnoticed. 

The family thanks the Hospice teams from both Espanola and Albuquerque for their support, love and care and our family in faith. To all who have called, visited, and sent blessings, you will never be forgotten. Nova and Kim thank you for being family at a time family was needed most. Thank you, Father Sebastian, for your final prayers!

As we say goodbye to Gloria Christine Martinez, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, warmth, and beauty. Her legacy will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Though we mourn her passing, we find comfort in knowing that she is now at peace, surrounded by the love she gave so freely in this world.

Services to honor Gloria's life will be held on Monday October 7, 2024, with a Rosary to begin at 11:30 am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Espanola and a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 12:30 pm. Burial will follow at the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Espanola. 

Pallbearers: Jemuel Montoya, Javier Martinez, Samuel Martinez, Jonathan Salazar, Antonio Montoya and LilyAnne Montoya. Honorary Pallbearers her Godchildren Mary Alves, Jonathan Perez, and Angelo Lopez, along with her many nieces and nephews.

Rest in peace, dear Gloria. You are loved beyond measure and will be missed more than words can express.