James Martinez

James Martinez passed away on May 22, 2024, with his loving family by his side, after a brief illness. His death was unexpected but knowing that he had Jesus in his heart and will spend eternity with Him makes it all more bearable. A lifelong resident of Glendale, he was born on August 11, 1957, to the late Eddie and Mary Martinez.

Jim attended OLPH Church grade school in Glendale, AZ, and graduated from Glendale High School. Jim began working on diesel tires at the age of 14, retiring as the owner & operator of Toro Tire Service in May 2022.

He married Mary Menefee, his high school sweetheart and they had two daughters together. Mary says that Jim was the love of her life. He was a loving husband, father, brother and Tata.

Jim attended Christ’s Church of the Valley (CCV) with Mary and he enjoyed being a member of a Bible study group. He had many fond memories of golfing with his friend Gus and his brothers Eddie and Michael. After retiring two years ago he loved golfing with his buddies at their Wednesday golf group. He also enjoyed going to breakfast with his close friends Shane, George, Gus, Eddie, Chuck, Scott and Gene.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Mary, two daughters Amanda (D’Metrid) James & Tricia Martinez, siblings Eddie, Michael, Barbara & Yvonne and five grandchildren Audrianna, Xavier, Bianca, Nevaeh & Fabien. He is preceded in death by his Mother and Father and best friend Kenny Damiani.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at 10AM at Christ’s Church of the Valley (CCV), 1565 N. 113th Avenue, Avondale. Lunch will be served after the service at Fray Garces Colombian Hall/Knights of Columbus, 8066 N. 49th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85302.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Jim’s name to StreetLight USA. The organization helps to get youth off the streets. https://www.streetlightusa.org/donate