Adelfa S. Martinez

Adelfa Martinez, born on May 4, 1928, in Moore, Texas, and died on December 7, 2023, in Grand Prairie, TX, lived a life steeped in profound love, which came from and returned to her loving God. She was the cherished daughter of Miguel and Jovita Saldana, who, along with her adoring husband, Elias B. Martinez, preceded her in death.

On December 19, 1954, Adelfa entered into a lifelong marriage with Elias, marked by deep affection and shared faith. Adelfa, a beacon of grace, led their young family to their first Pentecostal worship service, where Elias was punched by a drunkard harassing the pastor’s daughter. That set the stage for a life built on love, laughter, and a touch of divine humor. Together, she and Elias built a modest but remarkably faithful life.

Her commitment to faith went beyond mere membership in a church; it left an immeasurable impact on her church community. Prayer, Bible study, and unwavering attendance at worship services were not empty rituals for her—they were expressions of a deep-abiding spirituality. Her dedication extended to the prayer-chain ministry and caring for her fellow congregants as her own.

She poured unconditional love into her family, and her influence will endure in the lives she touched. After a full and vibrant 95 years, Adelfa leaves behind a slew of relations, including a loving daughter, Elizabeth Skipper, and her husband, Steve, of Grand Prairie, TX; a devoted son, Samuel S. Martinez, and his wife, Terri, of Texarkana, AR; four exceptional grandchildren: Bethanie Skipper, Samuel J. Martinez (and his wife Lizzy), Andrew Skipper, and Kristin Newman (and her husband Jonathan); three phenomenal great-grandchildren: Skylar Vines, Harper Vines, and Samuel R. Martinez; two brothers, David Saldana (and his wife Kathy) and Richard Saldana (and his wife Thelma); and a host of nieces, nephews, and cherished loved ones.

In the presence of God, where she now dwells, every desire is fulfilled, every tear is wiped away, and every love finds its perfection. Her legacy of love, faith, and fierce devotion to family will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.