Rogelio Martinez Jr.

Weslaco- Rogelio “Roy” Martinez Jr., a beacon of warmth, resilience, and unwavering love, passed away on April 6, 2025, at Knapp Medical Center. His departure leaves a profound void, but his legacy remains deeply etched in the hearts of all who knew him.

Born June 3, 1937, Rogelio lived a life of purpose and meaning. He embodied determination, entrepreneurship, and steadfast devotion to his family—the core values that shaped his journey.

He shared a beautiful life with his beloved wife, Hortencia “Tencha” Avila. Together, they built memories and community in Illinois before eventually returning to their cherished roots in the Rio Grande Valley. Although they ultimately separated, Roy and Tencha remained close friends and companions.

A tireless worker and natural entrepreneur, Roy made his mark in Raymondville, where he owned and operated a beloved restaurant. More than just a business, it became a local hub—where great food met warm conversation and lasting friendships. His entrepreneurial spirit carried over to Donna, where he opened a drive-in grocery store that quickly became another pillar of the community. Later in life, Roy found purpose differently—as a Weslaco Independent School District school bus driver. He took immense pride in safely transporting the children of his community, offering a steady presence and a warm smile each morning.

At the center of Roy’s world was family. His home was a haven of joy, where laughter echoed during weekend gatherings and the aroma of his famous backyard barbeques danced in the air. His love for his daughter brought a unique light to his life—a bond that was tender, fierce, and unconditional.

Roy’s life was marked by both extraordinary joy and unimaginable loss, having endured the heartbreak of losing two sons and later, his daughter. Yet through it all, he remained a pillar of strength, grace, and enduring spirit. His zest for life never waned. He found joy in bowling, hunting, and fishing—pursuits that connected him to nature's beauty and good friends' camaraderie. A passionate football fan, he rooted for the Dallas Cowboys and the Pittsburgh Steelers—teams that may have been rivals, but both held a place in his heart.

Above all, Rogelio was a man of deep and abiding faith. His Catholic beliefs were not just part of his identity—they were the compass that guided his every step. His faith remained unshakable through life’s triumphs and trials, providing comfort and inspiration to those around him.

Roy lived a meaningful life marked by generosity, resilience, and love. His legacy lives on in the stories shared, the meals remembered, and the values he passed down. He will be deeply missed, forever honored, and always remembered. He leaves behind a tapestry of vivid memories in his family's minds.

Rogelio is preceded in death by his parents, Rogelio Sr. and Maria (Salmon) Martinez, his former wife and mother of his children, Hortencia “Tench” A. Martinez, sons Rogelio and Roberto Martinez, and daughter Alida Elena Rios; brothers Rene Martinez Sr., Rolando Martinez, Rodolfo Martinez, and Richard Martinez; and nephew Juan Lino Martinez.

He is survived by his son-in-law, Michael Rios; sisters-in-law, Juanita Martinez, Maggie Martinez, and Dominga Martinez; nephews and nieces Rene, Roel, Armando, Robert, Eddie, Roy, Richard, Vickie, Angela, Rolando, Norman, Julie, Juan Lino, and Rudy Martinez.

Visitation will be held on April 14, 2025, from 3 PM to 9 PM at McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco, with a Holy Rosary at 7 pm. His life will be honored in a Mass at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church on April 15, 2025, at 10 AM, followed by a burial at Highland Memorial Park at 11 AM.

The imprint of Rogelio Martinez Jr.'s love, resilience, and spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have walked alongside him in this life. May his soul find eternal peace.