Tommy R. Martinez was born Feb. 17, 1938, in Pagosa Springs, Colo., to Tommy and Mary Martinez. He passed away Sept. 25, 2025, with his loving family around him. Those who could not be with him that he loved — they were in his heart.
In his early 20s, Tommy married Josie Archuleta. They had four children, Michael, Russell, Dino and Nicole. He later married Juanita Read and another son was born, Tommy J. Martinez.
Tommy grew up in Pagosa Springs, Colo. He loved to play sports in school. He played football and basketball while developing a love of music that would last his whole life. He was an avid hunter in his younger years. He also loved boxing, always encouraging his children to participate. Tommy always had many stories to share. These wonderful stories included lifelong friends, some he grew up with and went to school with.
Tommy played in different bands, including the Ladters and the Regals. Tommy loved all his music family. He played guitar and saxophone by ear and in his 50s finally decided to learn to read music.
Tommy went to work for the Forest Service in Pagosa Springs for 18 years. Then, Tommy and Juanita moved to Mancos, Colo., where he lived and worked until his retirement 15 years later. Tommy then moved back to Pagosa Springs after retirement, where he was able to visit and enjoy his family and friends. During this time, Tommy enjoyed his passions, camping and fishing. East Fork was a very special place for him to camp; although he camped in many areas, he loved the mountains. After moving to Aztec, N.M., for health reasons the last 15 years, Tommy enjoyed the sunshine and didn’t miss shoveling snow. Tommy was a soft-spoken man who had a mischievous sense of humor.
Tommy is preceded in death by his wife, Juanita; parents, Tommy and Mary Martinez; brother Leonard Martinez; his children, Nicole and Dino Martinez; and grandson Christopher Martinez.
He is survived by his children, Michael Martinez/Deirdra, Russell Martinez/Ena, Tommy J. Martinez/Crystal; brother Gilbert/Frances; sisters Theresa, Loretta/Fred, Janice and Jeanette; 12 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. A special thanks to Belinda for taking care of our beloved Tommy until the end.
Services will be held Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. Rosary is at 9:15, eulogy after the rosary and Mass at 10 a.m. at Pope John Paul II Catholic Church, Pagosa Springs, Colo.
