Evangelina (Lina) was born on September 26, 1934, in El Paso, TX, to Pedro O. and Theodora Martinez. She was a woman of immense love, strength, compassion, and grace, who devoted her life to her family and community.
She is survived by her loving husband of almost 70 years, Philip Martinez, who stood by her side through all of life’s joys and challenges, including serving as her devoted caretaker in her final years. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and countless enduring memories.
Lina was the cherished mother of Phil Jr. and his wife Mayela, Richard and his wife Martha, Roger and his wife Selina, Patrick and his wife Michelle, and Becky and her husband Joseph. She was also the proud grandmother of 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy and pride.
She was preceded in death by her beloved child, The Honorable Federal District Judge, Philip Ray Martinez, whom she carried in her heart every day.
Lina spent her life loving and serving her husband, family, church, and community. After spending most of her years serving others, she went back to school at the seasoned age of 72 and earned her degree in Elementary Education (Phi Theta Kappa), teaching for 1½ years at McArthur Elementary before returning home to enjoy more time with her husband. Lina was also a member of The Sisters in Christ group at her local parish, Saint Raphael’s Church. As a gifted crafter, and thoughtful soul, care packages became a love language for Lina, and she handed out hundreds over the years—always including her trademark mini-Kleenex bundles and Hershey’s Kisses. Her legacy of kindness, resilience, and love will live on in all who had the privilege to know her.
Visitation will be Wednesday, April 30, 2025 form 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a vigil; at 6:30 p.m. at Funeraria del Angel Central, 3839 Montana Ave., El paso Texas 79903. Funeral mass will be Thursday, may,1,2025 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Patrick Cathedral with Interment to follow in For Bliss National Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather and honor the beautiful life she lived.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the International Fox P1 Foundation in honor of their great grandson Beau Patrick (see QR Code in the images) or the El Paso Children’s Hospital.
