Ernest Lopez Martinez Jr.

April 2, 1943 - April 22, 2026

Lubbock, Texas • Dublin, Ohio • Rio Rancho, New Mexico

Ernest Lopez Martinez Jr., known to those who loved him as "Ernest" - and to many simply as "Neto" - passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, surrounded by family. He was 83 years old - and every one of those years was lived with humor, heart, and a quiet strength that left its mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was born on April 2, 1943 in Mission, Texas, and spent the better part of his life in Lubbock, Texas, a place that shaped him deeply and that he always called home.

Ernest built his career with his hands and his grit. For many years he served as a Foundry Supervisor at Hall Foundries in Lubbock, Texas - a role that suited a man who valued honest work, precision, and the satisfaction of making something real. He took pride in what he did and earned the respect of those who worked alongside him.

Away from work, Ernest had a lifelong love affair with classic cars. He wasn't just an admirer - he was a restorer, a collector, and a showman who understood that a well-kept automobile is a work of art. There was something about the lines of a classic car, the rumble of the engine, the smell of a freshly polished hood, that brought out the best in him. Those who knew him well know that his face lit up differently around a beautiful machine.

But what people will remember most is his humor. Ernest had a gift for the perfectly timed one-liner and a laugh that was entirely his own. He could light up a room without trying - the kind of man people gravitated toward simply because being around him felt good. He always loved a good joke, and he believed most of life's moments were better with a cold beer and good company.

Ernest was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Olga Bitela Martinez, who passed in 2020. Their partnership was the foundation of everything. He is survived by his son, Ernest (Jennifer) deBourbon of Dublin, Ohio; his daughter, Amy (David) Warren of Rio Rancho, New Mexico; his grandchildren, Gia, Cosette, and Tristan deBourbon, and Hayley Warren; his sisters, Josephine (Rumaldo), Mary Ann, Julia, and Janie; his brothers, Arthur (Alice), Manuel (Beth), and Johnny (Paula); and dozens of nieces and nephews who were never far from his heart.

His journey began in Mission, Texas, but it was in Lubbock where Ernest truly put down roots. It was there he built his career, found his calling, and - most importantly - built a life with the love of his life, Olga. Together they made Lubbock home, raising their family and creating memories that carried through every chapter that followed. From Lubbock he made his way to Dublin, Ohio, and finally to Rio Rancho, New Mexico, where he spent his final years close to family. Wherever he landed, he brought the same thing: warmth, wit, and a presence that made life richer for everyone around him.

Services

A private family viewing will be held for immediate family.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date in Lubbock, Texas. Details will be announced by the family.

"He always loved a good joke and a cold beer. He'd want you to smile."