Sylvia A. Martinez

She was diagnosed with ALS in 2013 and lived gracefully with the disease while maintaining a positive outlook throughout. She worked with the ALS foundation by participating in an important study that will be of benefit to future victims of the disease.

Sylvia was born in Corpus Christi, Texas to Alonzo and Remijia Martinez on August 2, 1946. She was the 5th child born into a family of 9. Since her youth, she radiated an easy-going strength and patience that many admired. Many knew Sylvia by her smile.

In 1964, she moved to California where she met Cal Wayne Forte and they had a child, Gina. For many years she enjoyed the coastal life of the bay area. In 1982, Gina and Sylvia relocated to San Antonio, Texas where she resided for the rest of her life. She was mother and best friend to Gina, a beloved sister and a doting aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Her most long-time and beloved job was with Abraham-Hicks Publications where she wore many hats. Here she inspired many people to cultivate and deepen their spiritual lives.

Sylvia had a very strong spiritual faith. She was a long-time member of Concordia Lutheran Church in San Antonio, Texas and was part of a women's bible study for many years.

She is survived by her daughter, Gina LaJuel Forte; her 6 sisters, Sulema Swindell, Susana Ramirez, Senaida Rangel, Soila Martinez, Sarah Hopper and Sandra Waters; two brothers, Jose Martinez and Daniel Martinez and many nieces and nephews.

A special thanks to Helen Alaniz and Toni Miller for the loving care they provided to Sylvia and her family in her final year.

A Memorial Service will be held on July 1st at 11am at Porter Loring North 2101 North Loop 1604 E, 78232. The service will be followed by a reception at Concordia Lutheran Church.

In addition to flowers, donations may be made to the ALS Association of Texas. Donations may be made online (www.alstexas.org) or mailed to: 4939 De Zavala Rd, Ste. 105, San Antonio, TX 78249.