Julia Martinez Amado

January 9, 1949 – December 15, 2025

Julia “Julie” Amado was born on January 9, 1949, in Eloy, Arizona, to Modesto and Herlinda Martinez. From her earliest years to her final days, Julie was devoted to her family, a devotion that defined her life and legacy. She lived with purpose, strength, and an unwavering love for those she held dear.

Julie embraced many roles throughout her life, but the ones she cherished most were those of a loving wife, devoted mother, and proud Nana. Her family was the center of her world, and everything she did was rooted in love, sacrifice, and care for others.

Julie’s life was a testament to extraordinary resilience and an unbelievable work ethic. As a young woman, she worked in the lettuce and cotton fields of Eloy and later in the grapevines of California, helping support her family in her late teens and early twenties. Her determination carried her through many seasons of life, from working as a florist and a medical receptionist to employment at Mervyn’s—all while attending school full time to become a medical assistant. She later transitioned into behavioral health social work, dedicating her career to helping others, all while remaining a steadfast wife and mother.

In 1974, Julie married Robert Amado, the love of her life. Their marriage of 50 years was filled with love, laughter, partnership, and unwavering devotion. Together, they raised two cherished children, Steven and Roberta, and built a home grounded in faith, hard work, and unconditional love. Their family grew with the blessing of six beloved grandchildren—Kayla Garvey, Conor Sullivan, Avery Amado, Carter Amado, Judah Amado, and Harper Sullivan —each of whom brought Julie immense joy and pride.

Julie was a tough, courageous, and beautiful soul who battled cancer for more than 15 years with quiet strength and grace. Even in the face of illness, she never complained. She was always thinking of others, especially her loved ones, never wanting them to worry, cry, or feel pity. Julie wanted everyone to know that she was okay, that she had lived a full and beautiful life, richly blessed by the love of her husband, children, and grandchildren.

Julie is survived by her children, Steven Amado of Boise, Idaho, and Roberta (Mark) Sullivan of Casa Grande, Arizona; her six grandchildren; her siblings, Nellie Stout of Illinois, Ninfa Tarango of Eloy, Arizona, Helen (Mario) Saldivar of Casa Grande, Arizona, and Carmen Rodman of Arizona City, Arizona; and many loving nieces, nephews, friends and extended family members. She is also lovingly remembered by the Amado family, who stood by her with love and support through the very end.

Julie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Amado, whom she longed to be reunited with; her parents, Modesto and Herlinda Martinez; and her siblings, Ramon Martinez, Jane Espinosa, and Sylvester Martinez.

Julie’s legacy is one of love, generosity, strength, and an unbreakable commitment to family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Services in Julie’s honor will be held on January 9th at St. Helen’s Catholic Church in Eloy, Arizona, beginning with a rosary at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Mass and a graveside service at Eloy Memorial Park Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow at J. Warren Memorial Gardens in Casa Grande, Arizona.

Julie’s light and love will live on in the hearts of her family, her friends, and all whose lives she touched. All arrangements have been entrusted to J. Warren Funeral Homes.