Joseph Franklin Martinez

Joseph Franklin Martinez (known to many as Joe), age, 92 of Albuquerque, NM, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He was a strong, compassionate, and devoted family man whose quiet resilience and steady presence were a source of strength to all who knew him.

Joe was born October 27, 1932 in Albuquerque, the son of Manuel Martinez and Margarita Chavez.

Joe graduated from Albuquerque High School, then joined the U.S. Navy in 1952, serving during the Korean War. After he was honorably discharged in 1956, he attended the University of New Mexico for two years.

Joe married Esther Miramon on May 17, 1969 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Albuquerque, with Rev. Henry Dery, officiating. Their marriage was filled with love, laughter, and the joy of raising their three children. Over the years, their family grew to include seven grandchildren, all of whom were deeply cherished.

He owned and operated Americana Wall Decor and later he worked as a Manager at Wellborn Paints/ Dunn Edwards, until he retired in 1998.

Joe was a devout parishioner of Our Lady of the Annunciation Parish, where he found great joy in serving his community. He volunteered in many capacities over the years, including as an usher at Mass, a collection counter at the parish office, and a committed member of the Social Concerns Committee.

Joe especially loved going camping with his family, going on many trips around New Mexico and across the country together. Joe's greatest joy was simply being with his loved ones-whether gathered around a campfire, sharing a meal, or celebrating milestones. He was an avid reader and fitness enthusiast- swimming was part of his daily routine for many years. He enjoyed taking care of the yard at home including growing chile, tomatoes, and other plants in the garden.

Carrying Joe's love and legacy are wife of 56 years, Esther; children, Marcel, Marcos (Erika), and Leticia Gomez (Marcelo); grandchildren, Alejandro, Diego, Sofia, Eliana, Gabriela, Javier, and Miguel; sisters, Adele Martinez of Southfield, MI and Mary Cordova of Albuquerque, NM; and many nieces and nephews, to whom he was known as "Uncle Frankie."

Preceding him in death are parents, Manuel and Margarita Martinez; brothers, Manuel and Felix; sisters, Frances Farris, Lourdes Moya, Susie Garcia, Sofia Aguilar, Mary Duran, Bessie Saavedra, and Gloria Romero.

The Martinez family extends a heartfelt thank you to the care team at the VA Community Living Center Hospice for their excellent, compassionate, and attentive care during Joe's time there. Their support brought great comfort during his final days.

A Rosary will be recited at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Mass of the Resurrection at 10:30 a.m. on May 21, 2025, at Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Church, 2621 Vermont St NE, with Msgr. Bennett J. Voorhies officiating. Interment will take place at the Santa Fe National Cemetery on Friday, May 23.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to St. Pius X School or Casa Angelica.