Roman Martinez Jr.

Roman Martinez, Jr., 91, a resident of Ranchitos, NM, peacefully passed away surrounded by family on Friday, April 11, 2025.

He was preceded in death by his son, Eldon Martinez; parents, Roman Sr. and Donelia Martinez; siblings, Florence Manchester, Carolina Owens, Delia Guynn (Norman), and Esther Martinez; parents-in-law, Quintin and Florentina Valencia; brothers-in-law, Basilires and Tomasito Valencia; sisters-in-law, Lela Valdez (Leo) and Angelina Baros; close friend Duane “Chuck” Nelson.

Roman was a caring and hard-working man. He loved visiting with family, listening to classic country music, and telling stories about growing up in Chimayo, the time his family spent in Hanover, NM, his service in the U.S. Army, experiences teaching, and favorite family memories. Roman enjoyed being outside and took pride tending to his fruit trees and garden in Chimayo. He loved collecting bottles which he displayed throughout his home. He also collected rocks with the majority incorporated into the rock wall he built at his home. He had an amazing ability to remember even the smallest details which made one feel you were with him when he found them.

Roman received his notice from the Selective Service to report for induction into the U.S. Army in May of 1953 while still in high school. He proudly served his country from 1953 – 1955 and was stationed at various locations including Fort Hood and Fort Benning.

He attended McCurdy High School graduating in 1953. He graduated from St. Michael’s College in Santa Fe with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, followed by a Master’s Degree from Adams State College. Roman always stressed the importance of education and decided to become a teacher. He taught Business and Accounting courses at Northern New Mexico Community College as well as at various high schools throughout northern New Mexico, retiring from Española Valley High School in 1989. He loved being a teacher and enjoyed sharing memories with his former students. It was rare that he would not run into someone he knew, a simple errand could take hours because he loved reminiscing with people.

Roman is survived by his wife of 66 years, “his rose” Juanita Valencia Martinez; children Eric Martinez (Bernadette Gallegos), Elaine Trujillo (Paul), and Jeff Martinez; his siblings, Josue Martinez (Victoria), Bond Martinez (Peggy), Matthew Martinez, and Deborah Babb (Bret); sister-in-law, Rita Martinez (J.D.); brother-in-law Benjamin Baros; grandchildren, Jasmine Martinez whom he raised as a daughter, Andrea Trujillo (Andrew), Gabriella and Joshua Trujillo, Eric Joseph, Derek and Liahni Martinez; great-grandchildren; Jaydn, Malakai, and Maddox Martinez, Landon and Noah Gallegos, and Aivryn Trujillo; former daughter-in-law, Christine Romero, who held a special place in his heart; as well as many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The family of Roman would like to acknowledge and thank those who assisted with his care; Katia Palomino, Ambercare staff, Julie Medina, and Anna Dixon. We would also like to thank Fr. Nathan Lopez for his visits and prayers.

A Rosary will take place at San Juan Bautista Catholic Church in Ohkay Owingeh, NM, at 10:00 am on Thursday, April 24, 2025, followed by a Mass at 11:00 am. Burial will take place at 9:00am on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Santa Fe National Cemetery in Santa Fe, NM.

The family of Roman Martinez Jr. has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.   505-747-7477