Javier Martinez-Lara

Javier Martinez-Lara

Javier Martinez Lara, 68, transitioned peacefully on the morning of April 3, 2025. He was surrounded by his family and friends, held in love until his final breath.

Javier was born on October 30, 1956 in Cd. Juarez, Mexico. He migrated to the U.S. at 18 and built a successful career as a drywall taper/laborer, becoming one of hundreds of workers who helped shape the housing developments across the Southwest. In 1989, he moved his wife and children to Albuquerque, where he continued building both homes and community.

After losing his construction job in the wake of the 2008 recession, Javier reinvented himself with quiet determination, taking on work as a janitor, a job he held with humility and dignity until his departure from this world.

Javier leaves behind a legacy of hard work, unmatched work ethic, and unwavering integrity. He believed deeply in respect for the rule of law, compassion for those in need, and above all, love, love for his family, his roots, and the community he helped build.

Javier was preceded in death by his parents Benito Martinez Ceniceros and Soledad Lara de Martinez. He is survived by his wife Ana Luisa Martinez; his daughter Viridiana Martinez; his son, Speaker of the House Javier Martinez, and daughter-in-law Diana V. Martinez; and his grandchildren Daryana, Marisela, Camilo, Dariela, and Darissa, who were the pride and joy of his life. The first among his siblings to leave this world, Javier's absence is felt deeply by the brothers and sisters who grew up beside him, shaped by the same roots of resilience and love.

"Tito," as he was affectionately called, loved unconditionally and embodied the quiet strength of generations. He lived with purpose and humility, and in doing so, achieved the American Dreamon his own terms. He was a proud immigrant, and that pride lives on in the values he instilled in his children and grandchildren, whose lives and leadership continue to shape their communities and beyond.

A Visitation will be held on April 10, 2025 6:00 pm with a Rosary to start at 6:30 at Strong Thorne Mortuary 1100 Coal Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106. With a funeral service taking place on April 11, 2025 9:00 am at Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary 5415 Fortuna Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87105.