Richard J. Martinez

Faithful Servant Leader and Compañero

May 3, 1947 - May 28, 2025

It is with profound sadness and deep respect that we announce the passing of Richard J. Martinez, a beloved human being.

Richard's devotion to his family was unwavering. He adored his wife of 56 years (and sweetheart since he was 15), Mary, and credited her for all of his successes (and crazy ideas).

He was a doting hermano to his sister, "Little Mary," cherished his bond with his brothers John Martinez (Marlene), Raymond Martinez (Enrique) and Roger Martinez (Sylvia), and was a proud father of Rick “Mijo” Martinez (Angela) and Amy Martinez Reno (Nathan).

Missing the experience of growing up with grandparents, due to their early demise, he took his role as a Grandpa very seriously and absolutely adored his grandchildren Wiley Martinez, Cristian Reno, Felice Martinez and Dominic (DJ) Reno.

He is preceded in death by his greatest primary influences, John B. Martinez, his father who was a combat veteran in WWII from Knickerbocker, Texas. His mother, Winifred Johnson Martinez hailed from across the pond in Stoke-On-Trent, England. She immigrated as a “War Bride” to San Antonio, Texas. The difficulties they endured made him realize the tremendous influence they had in shaping his own beliefs. This was the catalyst that led him to become a “Social Justice Warrior.”

While his family was his compass, he extended his "abrazos" to all, generously giving his time and sharing profound lessons.

Richard's remarkable career, spanning over 40 years in housing, human relations, and civil rights, made him a pillar of leadership development within the Latino community and among social justice advocates throughout the U.S. He achieved his accomplishments through grit, spirit and determination starting his career as a janitor for the San Antonio Housing Authority and climbing the ranks, ultimately achieving the role of Executive Director for Contra Costa County in California.

Richard was a founding Board member of LIDERAMOS and an accomplished facilitator, trainer, and distinguished organizational development practitioner. He was the founder and President of the R.J. Martinez Group, a consulting firm dedicated to leadership development, organizational capacity building, cultural competency, and housing and economic development. His extensive list of clients included the Illinois Governor's Office, the Bank of America Neighborhood Excellence Program, the Latino Policy Forum, and the National Association of Latino Community Asset Builders (NALCAB). Richard also co-founded the National Hispanic Housing Coalition in Washington, D.C. He testified before Congress and was asked to serve as a member of the House Democratic Caucus Housing Committee for the United States House of Representatives.

Through the Multicultural Leadership Academy and other initiatives throughout the country, Richard dedicated his life to nurturing the next generation of multicultural leaders. He had an extraordinary gift for seeing the potential in others and helped so many discover their own gifts.

Beyond his professional achievements, Richard was a vibrant artist, poet, playwright, and former owner of Mitos Art Gallery in San Antonio, Texas. His BBQ’s were legendary and another source of collaborating with his loved ones. He animated life and was an inspiration for all of us to see the brilliance within ourselves.

Richard will be greatly missed. May we honor his "cariño" and generosity by continuing to be of service to one another and our communities. May he “Rest in Power.”

In lieu of flowers, you can contribute to the Richard J. Martinez Legacy Fund at https://shorturl.at/aIUwq. (https://www.slabcinemaarthouse.com/richard-j-martinez-legacy-fund).

The Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Funeraria Del Angel Trevino, 226 Cupples Rd. San Antonio,TX 78237 following a Drumming Circle Ceremony from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and a Celebration of Life will continue at 7:00 p.m.

The Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at Funeraria Del Angel Trevino, 226 Cupples Rd., San Antonio,TX 78237. Interment will follow in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd., San Antonio,TX 78209.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared at www.funerariadelangelcupples.com