Estella Martinez Ayala

Estella Martinez Ayala went to sleep in death on June 19, 2026 at the tender age of 86. She was born in Corpus Christi, Texas on August 26, 1939 to parents, Jesusa Avila and Juan G. Martinez. Estella was a loving mother, faithful servant of God in her own way, and a woman whose kindness and devotion touched everyone who knew her. She lived her life centered around faith, family, and caring for others, always putting the needs of her loved ones before her own.

As a devoted mother, Estella's greatest joy was her children. She would do anything for them and was the steady presence that kept the family grounded. She was the one who maintained order in the home, offering guidance, support, and unconditional love. Her children always knew they could depend on her wisdom, strength, and caring heart.

Estella was a woman of deep faith. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she found comfort, purpose, and strength in her beliefs. She lived her faith through her actions, treating others with kindness, compassion, and respect.

She spent many years working at Enrique's Restaurant, where her dedication, hard work and warm personality made her a valued employee and friend to many. In her free time, Estella enjoyed gardening and found peace in caring for her plants and flowers. She also loved relaxing with her favorite television programs, especially soap operas/telenovelas, faithfully following the stories and characters she enjoyed so much.

Estella is preceded in death by her daughters, Mary Jessie Ayala and Elizabeth Ayala; brothers, Elijio Martinez, Enrique Martinez, Ernesto Martinez; former partner, Joel Javier Ayala Sr..

Her gentle spirit, and generous heart will forever live in her son, Joel Javier Ayala Jr. and daughter-in-law Adela Ayala; grandchildren, Jason Ayala, Joelleda Nicole Garcia (Erick), Joel Javier Ayala III, Andrew Joel Rodriguez and Gabriella Guillen (Jacob). Great-grandchildren, Erielle Atzi Garcia, Esteban Justino Garcia, Ezrah Nathaniel Garcia and Margot Guillen; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.

Those who knew Estella will remember her as a loving, caring, and selfless woman whose greatest happiness came from seeing her family happy and cared for. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Visitation will be held at Funeraria Del Angel, 549 Cheyenne, Corpus Christi, TX 78405, US, on July 9, 2026, from 5:00- 9:00 pm. A Funeral Service will take place at the same location the following day, July 10, 2026, at 10:00 am. A Committal Service will also be held on July 10, 2026 at Memory Gardens, 8200 Old Brownsville Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78415, US.