Eric Martinez

Eric Ray Martinez, affectionately known as "Short E," was born on April 27th, 1989, in Waco, TX, USA, and spent his early years there before moving to Amarillo, Texas. A compassionate, loving, loyal, and funny man, Eric was known for his contagious smile and his ability to fill any room with laughter and happiness. As the author Maya Angelou once said, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Eric embodied this sentiment, making others feel happier and lighter whenever he was around.
Eric had a genuine passion for art, music, and electronic repair, and he used these talents to bring joy to others. He was also an active member of the JROTC at A.J. Moore High School, showing his commitment to service and leadership. His love for family was paramount; he was an amazing father to his children, always within arms reach, providing support and love. He was the embodiment of the quote by Robert Brault, "In the end, you always go back to the people that were there in the beginning." He had a close bond with his Aunt Anita and was often seen with his brother, Jacob, and cousin Lil Robert, the three of them described as "three peas in a pod."
Eric is survived by his father, Albert Martinez, his sisters Anna Sanchez and Rosa Sanchez, his brother Edward Sanchez, and his other siblings Belinda Martinez and Jacob Martinez. He leaves behind his children, Leah, Robert, Zaila, Eric Jr., and Naliala. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins who will miss him dearly. Eric was preceded in death by his mother, Dolores Romo, his brother Emilio Sanchez, and other beloved family members.
As we remember Eric, we are reminded of the quote by Dr. Seuss, "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure. He is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. We invite family members and friends to share their memories and photographs of Eric on his memorial page, so we can all remember his infectious smile and the love he had for all of us. Eric, "shine bright like a diamond."