Jose A. Martinez

Jose “Sarge” Martinez, 78, died on July 7, 2023, arriving peacefully at the end of a long, courageous, and gracefully traveled journey through the uncertainty of Disease and Natural Causes. Memorial services will be held on July 16, 2023, from 2PM to 6PM at the Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home, 145 E. Mt. Pleasant Avenue, Livingston, NJ.

Born in San German, Puerto Rico, Jose grew up in his place of birth and moved to New Jersey at the age of 18 years old. The twin to his elder sister, they were the mainstay of their six siblings. His keen intelligence pushed him to serve those he fondly loved and strangers in need. Jose never stopped giving. A self-taught athlete and provider, he continued to strive for excellence in every endeavor. A lifelong peace officer, Jose spent over 38 years dedicated to his community and especially his crew. Despite prejudice and bias, he received over 30 commendations honoring his valor and dedication. He forged the path for others to excel and achieve. An active athlete, Jose played basketball for the Puerto Rican national team and excelled on the pitch in any sport, especially as a hard ball pitcher and long ball hitter in baseball. Jose has been the only pitcher to hurl a “perfect game” in the Roy Hobbs Over 40 World Series. He played baseball for over 30 years in the USOTB: United States Over Thirty Baseball league for multiple teams, but most recently for the Livingston Dodgers. Community policing and athletics were secondary to the deep devotion he felt for his family. He enjoyed spectating Mets games and his son’s, and daughter’s various sporting matches.

An avid, lifelong community activist, Jose spent many fall seasons in his hometown of San German, contributing to the upkeep of the park across from the family home or advocating with the mayor for improved services. Jose enjoyed the beauty in San German, Puerto Rico, and the historical town of Maplewood. These were the two places he loved the most.

Jose has been a most loyal companion and genuine listener to many. He is survived and remembered, the eternal advocate and supporter, by those of us who benefitted from his kindness and benevolence: his longtime companion and partner, Lisa Menza. The soul of his heart belongs to his three children and their respective spouses and children: Salvador Martinez and Maria, Angel Martinez and Gina, and Melinda Martinez-Fibraio and Seth. Jose is survived by his siblings: twin sister Ana and Miguel Perez, Victor Martinez, Luis Martinez, sister Pura Cabo and youngest brother, Salvador. He is also survived by grandchildren: Michael, Gabrielle and Anthony Martinez, Trey Martinez, Leah, Elena and Seth Fibraio. He is survived by his great-grandson, Mickey Martinez and many nieces, nephews and loving cousins who will carry his memory in each ball thrown, bat swung, cup of tea shared, game watched, and season celebrated.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jose's name can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.