Martha Valencia Ordaz

Born in Mexico City, Martha made El Paso, Texas her home, where she created a life filled with faith, love for her family, and a devotion to caring for others. She was a devoted educator who worked as an attendance clerk at O’Shea Keleher Elementary and Sierra Vista Elementary, where she became a familiar and comforting presence to students, parents, and staff. She was the first smile of the day when they walked through the school doors. During her time there, she not only cared for those around her, but also built lasting friendships that she cherished deeply. She had a special way of making everyone feel seen and cared for, and her kindness left a lasting impact on all who crossed her path.

Martha had a way of making everyone feel deeply loved. She expressed it in the simplest, most meaningful ways: a home cooked meal, a joyful presence, or a smile that stayed with you. Cooking for others filled her heart. Her meals brought people together, creating moments of laughter, comfort, and connection. There truly wasn’t a single person who met her who didn’t love her.

Her faith was at the center of everything. She was deeply devoted to our Lord Jesus Christ, and her faith was evident in the way she lived, through the love she gave and the lives she touched.

She shared a beautiful life with her “querido” husband, who preceded her in death in 2021. Martha and Ariel met at a country western dance class in El Paso, where their life together began. Over 36 years of marriage, they danced through life side by side, listening to mariachi music, celebrating every moment, and living life to the fullest. We find comfort in knowing they are reunited, dancing together again.

To her family, she was everything. The heart of our home, our greatest source of love, and our constant. She is survived by her “mijas” Monica Alexander and Claudia Ordaz; her sons-in-law, Joseph Alexander and Jacob Demers; and her beloved grandchildren, Natasha Alexander and Joseph Alexander, who brought her so much joy and pride.

She will always be remembered for her beautiful smile that could light up a room and make anyone feel at home.

We find peace in knowing she was called home during Holy Week, a sacred time that reflects the promise of eternal life. The scripture that so perfectly captures who she was is this:

“Love never fails.” (1 Corinthians 13:8)

Her love does not end here. Her love lives on in all of us.