Cherie Monique Martinez

With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved daughter, Cherie Monique Martinez, who went home to be with the Lord on April 27, 2026, at the age of 31.

Cherie was born on February 12, 1995, to her loving parents, Jose “Carlos” Martinez and Ruby Martinez. From the very beginning, Cherie carried a light within her that touched the lives of so many. She was known for her compassion, her big heart, and her willingness to give anything she had just to see someone else smile.

Cherie is survived by her parents, Jose “Carlos” and Ruby Martinez; her brother, Carlos Martinez (Emily Gibbons); and her sister, Chenell Howard (Gyasi Howard).

She was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Raeanna Martinez; her great-grandparents, Macario and Mary Sabala, and Arthur and Sally Valdez; her grandmother, Priscilla Aragon (Grandma Sunshine); and her grandparents, Albert Martinez and Rita Martinez.

Cherie shared a special and unique bond with her cousin and goddaughter, Desalina Valdez. Cherie loved Desalina deeply, as well as her sister, Shaianna Raygoza, who she cherished like her own sister. She is also survived by many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends whom she loved deeply and who loved her in return.

She leaves behind her grandfather, Manuel Sabala, and uncle Augustine Salas, who was like a grandfather to her. Cherie faithfully served as one of his caregivers up until the time of her passing, showing her heart of love and dedication through her actions.

Cherie was a proud aunt to her brother Carlos’s children: Carlos Junior, Cruz, Catalina, and Cairo Martinez. Her love for her nieces and nephews was deep and unconditional.

She also leaves behind her beloved dog, Bonnie Roozy, who was more than a pet—she was Cherie’s baby and constant companion.

Cherie had a lifelong best friend, Rocky Lefebre, who remained very dear to her heart. Though life took them down different paths, the love and friendship they shared always remained special to her.

Cherie had a beautiful, vibrant soul. She loved singing, drawing, and expressing herself creatively. She loved people deeply and carried a compassion that could be felt by anyone who encountered her. She was funny, outgoing, and loved to laugh—her smile could light up a room and bring joy even in the hardest moments.

Cherie also had a strong will. She could be stubborn at times, but when she set her mind to something, she did her best to stick to it. That determination was part of what made her who she was.

Her joy could be found in the simple things—flowers that made her smile, especially sunflowers, and her favorite colors, purple and black, which reflected both her boldness and her beauty.

She was truly a daddy’s girl. Her father was not only her dad, but also her pastor and one of her closest confidants. Their bond was something special and unbreakable.

While Cherie faced struggles in life, including battles with addiction, one thing she never let go of was her love for Jesus Christ. Through every season, she knew where her help came from, and she always found her way back to Him. Her faith remained a foundation in her life, even in the hardest moments.

Cherie’s life impacted more people than we may ever fully know. Many have come forward sharing stories of her kindness, her love, and the way she showed up for them in their time of need. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and faith.

Our beloved daughter, granddaughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend will be missed beyond words and loved forever.