Margie Martinez

Margie Martinez was born on Friday, July 5, 1968, in Phoenix, Arizona. From the moment she entered this world, Margie carried a spirit that would shine through every limitation placed upon her. Born with developmental, physical, intellectual disabilities, and was non-verbal and unable to walk. Yet, her laughter, playfulness, and unwavering presence spoke louder than words ever could.
Early in life, Margie became a ward of the State of Arizona and in the 1970's was placed at the Arizona Training Program (ATP) Phoenix. Windsor Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) was her home from (June 7, 2013 – August 2025), then later resided briefly at the Earll (ICF) until her passing on October 25, 2025, at St. Joseph's Hospital. It was at these facilities that Margie was surrounded by the many dedicated caregivers and professional staff members who cared for, raised and became her extended family.
Although staff members names and faces changed throughout Margie's life, their job titles and responsibilities remained the same. Special recognition and sincere gratitude to the individuals who held/hold these job titles.
Ø HT (Habilitation Technician) I, II, and III – Provided direct physical services, social interaction and on-going training as directed by her training programs.
Ø Nurses – Diligently addressed her medical needs, administered medications and monitored vital signs. Above and beyond her medical care they also advocated for Margie. Their advocacy included requesting medical specialist as needed, equipment for non-ambulatory and clothing needs. Additionally, they provided follow-up communication to ensure these needs were met.
Ø Administrative Services were provided by House Managers/ Supervisors responsible for daily staff schedules, ensuring 24-hour maintenance and care. These administrators also provided a safe haven of guidance, structure and supportive environment.
Ø Support Coordinators – Addressed educational needs, developed and implemented Individualized Service Plans (ISP's). Coordinated field trips, arts and crafts activities. Training Schools and Day Programs provided these educational opportunities.
Ø Maricopa County Public Fiduciary Office – Provided guardianship and financial oversight. The Public Fiduciary served as Margie's Legal Guardian providing financial accountability and reported annually to the AZ Superior Court of her overall status. This office was also responsible for Margie's official records and ensured that these programs were implemented.
It takes a village to raise a child. Indeed, this was Margie's village. They were Margie's voice.
Margie's Public Fiduciary informed that Margie was placed into Hospice status although, she maintained her residence at Windsor ICF. The Windsor and Earll ICF's were staffed and operated on a 24-hour 7 day a week basis, including Security Services.
During Margie's residency at ATP, she was non-ambulatory but still managed to be very active and energetic. At eight year's old Margie underwent major surgery and was able to walk with intense physical therapy. This newfound freedom allowed to walk and explore the facility. Staff were often heard saying, "Where's Margie"? She would be found at the kitchen sink playing in the water with a dish cloth. At other times, while the rest of the clients were in the main living room, Margie was found in her bedroom playing with dolls as she combed their hair. The staff would say, Margie Martinez what are you doing? She would playfully glance at the staff and laugh. Two of Margie's dolls were placed in her casket.
As an adult, even while wheelchair-bound, Margie's playful nature endured. The Windsor ICF staff provided some stories of Margie's character:
Ø Frequently, she would wheel herself to the front door or the side door leading to the backyard and push the buttons of the automatic door opener. Margie would look back to see who was watching her. She giggled as the doors opened and attempted to cross the threshold.
Ø One Halloween the staff dressed her as a nurse. She also, liked to play Connect Four, a game using checker like tokens. She liked the sound as the tokens fell through the plastic frame. She liked playing Peek a Boo and Paty Cake. She enjoyed children's songs, such as "She'll Be Comin' Round the Mountain When She Comes", "Its Bitsy Spider" "Row, Row, Row Your Boat" and others.
Ø She used her iPad daily listening to songs. Her favorite artist was Selena Quintanilla and delighted in playing the piano on her tablet.
Ø She was intrigued by her reflection in the mirror. The staff applied make-up and fingernail polish with mauve glitter colors. She delighted flipping through magazines and was captivated by pictures of fashion and accessories. Margie had subscriptions to a couple of magazines.
Sincere recognition and gratitude is extended to the Maricopa County Public Fiduciary's Estate/Benefit Department. Due to their diligence, were recently able to locate Margie's siblings. When Margie was reunited with her family, she appeared to remember them. Her family was overjoyed to reconnect with Margie once again. This was yet another highlight in Margie's life.
The following information was provided by the Estate/Benefit Department. Margie's full legal name was Margarita Uriarte Martinez. Her parents Domingo Martinez and Linda Margarita Uriarte presided Margie in death. Margie was Native American belonging to the Pasca Yaqui Tribe.
Our deepest gratitude to Hansen's Funeral Home who provided guidance and made the funeral arrangements.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 10, 2025, at St. Agnes Catholic Church 1954 N. 24th St. Phoenix, AZ 85008. The viewing will be held at 9:00 a.m., Rosary at 9:30 and Mass from 10:00 -11:00 a.m. Followed by a Christian burial at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery 2033 N. 48th Street, Phoenix. AZ 85008.