Demetre Martinez

Demetre Rene Martinez, 26, of Vista, California, and formerly of Lubbock, Texas, passed away on Monday, September 8, 2025. He was born on October 28, 1998, in Del Rio, Texas. At a young age, his family moved to Lubbock, where he spent his childhood and school years. Demetre attended Centennial Elementary, Mackenzie Middle School, and graduated from Coronado High School in 2018. During his time at Coronado, he was a proud member of the marching band, playing the tuba and fostering a deep love for music. He also had a passion for sports, playing travel basketball in his youth and avidly supporting his favorite teams — Texas Tech, the Dallas Cowboys, and the San Antonio Spurs.

From a young age, Demetre aspired to serve his country. At just 11 years old, he set his sights on becoming a United States Marine, inspired by his grandfather. During his junior year of high school, he and his father visited a Marine Corps recruiting office where he officially committed to joining. Following his high school graduation, he entered boot camp and proudly graduated on September 18, 2018.

Demetre served his country with dedication and pride. Through hard work and determination, he achieved the rank of Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps and fulfilled his dream of becoming a Drill Instructor — a role he took on with honor and distinction.

He is survived by his parents, Robert Martinez, Jr. and Veronica Barrera, and his brother, Donovan Martinez, all of Del Rio; his beloved children, Hazel Martinez (with mother Courtney Villa of Floydada), and Micah and Anora Martinez (with mother Maria Perez-Pineda of Vista, California); and his grandparents, Isabel Torres, Daniel and Rosalinda Garcia, and Anselmo Barrera Jr., all of Del Rio. He is also remembered by numerous extended family members and friends who deeply loved and cherished him.

Demetre was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Roberto Tovar Martinez, Sr. and Ricardo Torres.

The family will receive friends from 5:00-8:30 pm, Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at Venue on Broadway, 2202 Broadway in Lubbock. Mass will be at 10:00 am, Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at St. John Neumann Catholic Church with interment to follow at Resthaven Memorial Park.

Demetre will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family, his country, and his community. His legacy of strength, service, and love will live on in all who knew him.

Semper Fi, Marine!