Martha Palacios-Leon

Martha “Smiley” Palacios was born on January 24, 1964 in El Paso, Texas and passed away on June 23, 2024 in Inglewood, California. Preceded in death by her parents Carlos G. Palacios, a plumber for Loyola Marymount University, and Yolanda Palacios, a bookkeeper for Northrop Grumman Corporation.

Sister to Anais, Carlos, Raul, Laura, Freddy, and Bobby, numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. She is survived by spouse Oscar, daughter Priscilla, sons Oscar Jr, and Brian Eric. Martha was raised in Inglewood and graduated from Inglewood High School.

Martha was extremely creative, adventurous, crafty, and loved life. Her passions were many, and she pursued them with a fervor that was truly admirable. She put her whole heart into everything she did. Loved to crochet, cook, and crafty with soda tabs. She created beautiful purses, belts, wallets, carryall totes; also known as Soda Tab Couture.

She worked at Loyola Marymount University in the security department, in which with her many skills and talents new procedures were implemented. She transferred to Florentine Home Shops as Manager for many years. She excelled with her creative thinking and interior design talents, her smiling, joyous way of listening and taking a real interested in customers’ needs. She usually made a friend with the customers.

She worked for H&R Block as a customer professional representative, where this was her cup of tea. Attentive to all customers’ needs, a joy and friendly voice making calls and setting appointments.

She faced challenges with grace and never let them dim her spirit. Her love for family and friends was unwavering and she made sure to always be there for us offering support, laughter, and love. Her greatest joy was helping others.

Always showing gratitude and generosity to everyone, especially those who in her last years would assist in her transportations, home nurses, doctors, and medical team at Davita, her dialysis center. Most of the patients at Davita knew her as the happy lady always saying, “good morning” to everyone, she always had a positive attitude. Her dedication to making a difference in the lives of others, spreading joy, and leaving a positive impact wherever she went is a testament to her beautiful soul.

Meeting people and taking her time to listen to them offering empathy and a helping hand whenever she could, she always had a positive attitude and “smiling as much as she could.” She was nicknamed “Smiley” by her friends in High School. She loved laughing and socializing always wanting to leave a place better than she found it.

Smiling!!! Her kindness knew no bounds, and her smile could light up the darkest room. “She was LIFE.”

Martha was very involved in her community. Helping in the election of Councilman Alex Padilla, active with Inglewood and Culver City Police Dept, involved with the distribution of Turkeys for Thanksgiving from Snoop Dogg Organization, calling less fortunate families, and feeding the homeless. She taught us the importance of living life to the fullest and cherishing every moment.

Though she may no longer be with us in person, her spirit will continue to live on in our hearts. The memories we shared, the lessons she taught us, and the love she gave will never be forgotten. She has left an indelible mark on our lives, and we are all better for having known her.

As we say goodbyes, let us remember her not with sadness, but with gratitude for the beautiful moments we had together. Let us celebrate her life and the incredible person she was. Martha is irreplaceable in the life of many, and all who loved her best. She will be greatly missed. Rest in Paradise, dear sister. YOU will always be loved and remembered.

A celebration of life for Martha will be held Saturday, August 10, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Lighthouse Memorials & Receptions, 5310 Torrance Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503.

The family requests that guests honor Martha's love of pink and incorporate the color into their outfit.

Memorial Service Video: Martha Smiley Palacios-Leon

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACXlh0J_vbw