William "Bill" Martinez

William “Bill” Martinez, age 92, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, passed away on October 19, 2025, in Baton Rouge. He was born on August 18, 1933, in Camuy, Puerto Rico, to the late William H. Martinez Sr. and Helen Odom Martinez. Bill was a proud graduate of Dutchtown High School and later earned his degree from Louisiana State University (LSU). Bill was married to Lydia Jeanette Thurman Martinez, with whom he shared a wonderful life filled with love, laughter, and devotion. He served in the United States Army and was a Proud Veteran. He worked as a Chemical Engineer for BASF, where he dedicated many years of service and developed lasting friendships. A man of many passions, Bill loved hunting, fishing, and woodworking. He was also a passionate LSU fan who proudly cheered for his Tigers every season. Above all, he loved his family deeply and was known for his kind heart and willingness to help anyone in need.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lydia Jeanette Thurman Martinez; his parents, William H. Martinez Sr. and Helen Odom Martinez; his grandson, Carson Root; his daughter-in-law, Jill Root; and two stepsons, Jay Root and A.G. Root. He is survived by his brother Walter Martinez and sister Mary Currier; his grandson Cullen Root; and three granddaughters, Abbey Root, Paige Root, and Blaire Root.

Bill will be remembered as a loving and kind-hearted man, whose warmth and generosity left a lasting mark on all who knew him.

A visitation for Bill will be held Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Ourso Funeral Home, 13533 Airline Hwy, Gonzales, Louisiana 70737, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM.

Bill will be laid to rest in Serenity Oaks Memorial Park, 15304 Hwy 73, Prairieville, LA.