Rafael Martinez Franco, 91, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully and entered rest on January 2, 2026. He was born on November 7, 1934, in Atotonilco el Alto, Jalisco, Mexico, to Juan Franco and Concepción Martinez.
Rafael came to the United States as a young man and worked as a farmworker in California and Texas. He later became a vinyl record press operator in Los Angeles before returning to Texas, where he proudly worked in the petrochemical industry.
He was known for his strong work ethic and love of life. Rafael enjoyed cooking for his family and friends, traveling, and working on home projects, remaining active well into his later years. Above all, he treasured the time he spent with his loved ones.
Rafael was preceded in death by his wife, Maria Guadalupe Gonzalez Franco, and his sons, Juan Guadalupe Franco and Felipe de Jesus Franco.
He is survived by his children— Rene Franco (Blanca), Antonio Franco (Diana), Rafael Franco Jr. (Luke), Maria Franco Haddad (Faysal), and Pablo Franco (Jenny). He is also survived by his sister, Juanita Franco Uribe, 27 grandchildren, and more than 30 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on January 10, 2026, at Forest Park Lawndale, 6900 Lawndale St., Houston, Texas 77023. Visitation will take place from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., followed by Memorial Service at 5:00 p.m.
