Alicia Martinez

Alicia Z. Martinez, a devoted soul whose life spanned the fields of Boling, Texas, to the many corners of the United States, peacefully returned to her Creator on January 1, 2028, at age 85. Born on February 26, 1939, she cultivated not only the earth as a lifelong migrant worker but also the hearts of those she loved as a selfless wife and cherished mother.

Alicia worked tirelessly alongside her family as a migrant worker for most of her life. As a teenager, she made a life-changing decision and dedicated her life to her Lord and Savior. Her faith never wavered, and she touched the lives of countless people. 

She married Carlos Martinez, and they continued to travel yearly while raising children. Even though the workdays were relentless, Alicia devoted herself wholeheartedly to being a full-time homemaker. She was a faithful and loving wife, a cherished wife, and the heart of her family. 

In the rich tapestry of her life, Alicia crafted together threads of hard work, faith, and a nurturing spirit. Known for her courage and wisdom, she embraced every challenge as an opportunity to grow. Her commitment to her family was unwavering, with her proudest accomplishments being the children and grandchildren she lovingly raised to follow Christ.

To say that Alicia was a woman of faith would be an understatement. She was a beacon of God’s love and a living testament to His word. Her days were often filled with reading the Bible. Her favorite scripture was Psalm 121, which guided her through life’s trials and joys. The echoes of her voice could often be heard lifting praises in the church, where she dedicated countless hours volunteering. She helped her community grow in faith while nurturing a spirit of camaraderie among her fellow congregants.

Alicia’s nurturing spirit extended to her fondness for gardening and cooking. Her green thumb turned dirt into a flourishing life, and she cherished the tranquility found in nature. There was magic in her kitchen, too. Each recipe crafted with love was more than just a meal; it was a gathering point for family and friends, where stories were shared, and faith was deepened over shared bites of her lovingly prepared dishes. Alicia also loved and cared for her dogs. 

Alicia was both a protector and nurturer, creating a safe harbor for her loved ones amidst life's storms. Alicia’s legacy is one of selflessness, stamped by her remarkable resilience and an unshakeable spirit.

Alicia is preceded in death by her parents, Jose and Altagracia (Ortega) Zavala, and her loving husband, Carlos Martinez, and siblings, Maria Mendiola, Blanca Sauceda, Amalia Martinez, and Jose Zavala. 

She is survived by children, Maria de Jesus Rivera (Rolando), Martha Alicia Martinez (Eusebio), Maggie De la Rosa (Tomas), Jorge Luis Martinez (Maria Elena), and Myrna Colegio (Jose), her sister, Yadira Salinas and her brother, Juan Zavala, sixteen grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

As we honor her life, we invite all who knew Alicia to remember her for what she accomplished during her time with us and for the profound love she sowed in every heart she touched.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, from 2 PM to 9 PM, with a prayer service officiated by Pastor Cesar Tamez at 7 PM at McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco, Texas. A celebration of Alicia’s remarkable life will commence the next day, February 5, 2025, at 1 PM. Alicia will be laid to rest next to her husband, Carlos, at Highland Memorial Park at 2 PM.

Alicia Martinez may have left this earthly realm, but her spirit, filled with strength and grace, will undoubtedly bloom in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her.