Jimmie Lou Martinez, 73, of Abilene, passed away on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in Abilene. Born on July 18, 1951, to the late Jake Edward LaRoe and Opal Christine Vick LaRoe, Jimmie was a true West Texan through and through—tough, loving, and full of heart.
Jimmie never met a stranger. Her kindness, warm smile, and down-to-earth honesty made everyone feel like family. She spoke her mind with charm and humor, and you always knew where you stood with her—usually right next to her, laughing. She loved her Kansas City Chiefs, cheered passionately every Sunday, and had a deep love for country music, especially anything sung by George Strait. Animals held a special place in her heart, and she adored all creatures, but none more than her beloved dog, Mia, who rarely left her side. Above all, Jimmie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was the heart of her family, always putting others first, always loving fiercely.
She is survived by her loving husband, Joe Martinez; daughter, Jackie Rodriguez and husband Brandon; step-son, Ronnie Martinez; grandchildren, Elodie Rose and Luke James; sister, Patsy LaRoe Norton; niece, Vicki Pack; and numerous great-nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss her dearly.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 – 7:00 PM on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 5701 US Hwy 277 South in Abilene. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Elmwood Memorial Park.
Pallbearers will be Brandon Rodriguez, Ronnie Martinez, Andrew Martinez, Tanner Salazar, Joseph Thomason, and Jerry Salazar.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to Rescue the Animals, in honor of Jimmie’s lifelong love of animals.
