Jose Augustine Martinez

José “Augustine” Martinez

José “Augustine” Martinez was born on September 2, 1941, to Fidel and Adelina Martinez of Rio Chama, New Mexico. A longtime resident of El Rito, New Mexico, Augustine passed away on March 25, 2026, at the age of 84. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents; his brothers, Clotario, Fidel, and Orlando; and his cherished great-grandson, Baby Eli.

Augustine proudly served his country as an Airman First Class (A1C E-4) in the United States Air Force. Following his service, he worked for McDonnell Douglas Aircraft while earning certifications in barbering, meat cutting, and refrigeration technology. He later served as a firefighter with the Department of Energy in Los Alamos, New Mexico. He ultimately dedicated his career to the State of New Mexico, where he retired as a Fire Marshal.

A true jack of all trades, Augustine had a deep love for working with his hands and spending time outdoors. He generously gave his time and talents to maintaining the El Rito San Juan Nepomuceno Church, contributing to projects such as flooring, heating, and carpeting—often too many to count. Known for his willingness to help anyone in need, Augustine was a dependable presence not just in his family but in his community. He will be fondly remembered for his remedios, his rich storytelling of local history, and his being a jokester.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Floraida Martinez; his three cherished children, Cathy Martinez-Maestas (Alex), Veronica Martinez (Kenneth), and Joe Steven Martinez (Monica). He also leaves behind seven grandchildren: Andrea Valdez (Raymond), Shannon Wilson (James), Kayla Martinez, Isaiah Martinez (Rebecca), Kasey Valdez, Felicia Martinez (Steven), and Bobby Lucero; twelve great-grandchildren: Jeslyn, Jennifer, Rayna, Kasen, Alex, Kashton, Kenai, Catherine, James Jr., Riverlyn, Emmett, Jackson Ryan, and one great-great-granddaughter, Acelyn. He is also survived by his sisters, Teresa and Loyola; his brothers, Cy and Juan Luis; and many beloved hijados y sobrinos.

A Memorial Service will take place on Monday April 6, 2026, at 10:30 am in the Sangre de Cristo Chapel of DeVargas Funeral Home with a Rosary to follow. Burial will be at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2:30. 

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his devoted nurse, Lucrécia Tainter, as well as Dr. Singleton and Laurel (Lolly) Baker, for their compassionate care and support.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.”— Matthew 25:23

The family of Jose Augustine Martinez has entrusted the care of their loved one to the DeVargas Funeral Home of the Española Valley 505-747-7477.