Barbara Martinez

Barbara Jean Martinez, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in her home on May 1, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on February 21, 1936, in Oklahoma, Barbara lived a life defined by deep love, quiet strength, and selfless devotion to those around her.

She was the heart of her family--a woman whose love was constant and enduring, who gave of herself freely and always put others first. Barbara lived through many challenges, yet remained kind, generous, and unshakably devoted to her family. Her support was unwavering, her laugh contagious, and her presence comforting to all who knew her.

Barbara was a woman of many joys. She deeply loved nature and felt a strong connection to Native American culture and people. She also enjoyed time spent outdoors hunting alongside her father, brother, husband, and their many friends.

She worked for many years as a special needs school bus driver for Albuquerque Public Schools-a job she took pride in and approached with great care and love. She even bowled on the school bus league, and was known to shoot scores over 200, coming close (if not achieving) a perfect 300 game.

Barbara was a devoted wife to her husband of 63 years, Anthony J. Martinez (April 4, 1934 - January 29, 2015); and a loving mother to their seven children, Vanessa, Laverne, Joe, Mike, Kelly, Nathan, and Leonard. She is also survived by her sister, Helen; her half-brother, Ricky; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mildred Irene Burns Kees (July 17, 1918 - June 17, 1949) and Harry Milbourne Kees (February 3, 1913 - April 8, 2003).

Those who knew Barbara will remember her sparkling wit, her gift for listening, and the deep and enduring love she offered to everyone in her life. She never let disagreements come between her and those she loved, and her consistent presence and wisdom were treasures.

Barbara was very deeply loved and will be missed every day for the rest of our lives. Her legacy lives on in the laughter she shared, the strength she carried, and the love she poured into every corner of her world.