Marian Jeanette Martinez

Born on November 29, 1933, in Denver, Marian was the cherished daughter of Richard M. and Tillie M. Espinosa. She graduated from West High School in 1952 and, two years later, married the love of her life, Jesse J. Martinez. Together, they celebrated 64 years of marriage, weathering life’s highs and lows side by side.

Marian, a quiet and thoughtful soul, was a pillar of strength and independence. She dedicated her life to caring for her family, working full time with the U.S. Government’s GSA for 24 years while raising her children and, later, providing unwavering care for Jesse during his prolonged illness. She was never one to ask for help, always steadfast in her resolve not to be a burden to those she loved.

After retiring, “Grandma Mer” found joy in nurturing her grandchildren and, more recently, her great‐grandchildren—who sometimes called her “Grama Mer‐maid.” Her door was always open to family, and she delighted in supporting her grandkids at school and sporting events. Marian was an avid traveler and passionate genealogist, devoting herself to discovering and preserving her family’s history. Her love for gardening yielded not just beautiful flowers and abundant harvests, but countless lessons for those she held dear.

Marian is survived by her children, James C. Martinez and Debra Shannon Simpson; sisters Betty Meyers and Dorothy George; 5 grandchildren; 11 great‐grandchildren; and 1 great‐great‐ grandson. She was preceded in death by her husband Jesse, her parents, her brother Richard Espinosa, and her sister Lucille Lukens.

We honor our mother, grandmother, and great‐grandmother for her love, strength, and enduring influence in our lives. As we grieve, we also carry deep gratitude for her presence and the love she shared. May we all find peace, comfort, and strength in the days ahead.