Dora Martinez

All who knew Dora Martinez will certainly agree that she was a remarkable woman with a heart of gold. She was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times, and she was always willing to go above and beyond to serve others in whatever ways she could. Nothing brought Dora greater joy than surrounding herself with her loved ones, and it was evident that her family was her top priority in life. Her insatiable zest for life could be felt by all those around her, and to know her was to love her instantly. Greatly loved, Dora will never be forgotten.

The late 1940s was an amazing time to be an American following the end of WWII. The economy was flourishing, and the historic baby boom was underway. During these exciting years, Joe Jonas Esparza and Josphine Reyes of Austin, Texas, were awaiting the arrival of their baby with breathless anticipation. On March 10, 1949, they brought their daughter, Dora Alice, into the world. Dora enjoyed a typical childhood for her generation, filled with happiness and fond memories. She attended local schools through high school, eagerly looking forward to what her future had in store.

Of all the things Dora loved in life, she treasured her family above all else. She met and married the love of her life, John Gomez Martinez, in the presence of family and friends on April 30, 1976. Together, Dora and John were overjoyed to welcome their five beloved children, John Jr., Tracy, Christopher, Amanda, and Andrea, into their hearts and home. Dora thrived in her role as a mother, and her children were her greatest source of pride and joy. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for her kids. Dora constantly strove to be the best mother she could be. She was not afraid to work hard, especially not when it came to providing for herself and those who depended on her. Dora found employment at Donnelly Mirrors, and more recently, she worked at Sam’s Club.

Later in life, Dora was thrilled to become a grandmother and even a great-grandmother. She adored her twelve grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, and she was there for every sporting event, special occasion, or joyful moment. Dora considered herself blessed to watch her family grow to include so many loved ones, and she made sure that her friends and family members always knew just how much they were cherished.

Never one to sit still for long, Dora pursued many hobbies to keep busy in her free time. She liked going to the casino, and she was an avid fan of sports and football, especially the Dallas Cowboys, the Texas Longhorns, and Kirk Cousins. Dora loved listening to all kinds of music, but Elvis was her favorite. She could always enjoy a good burger. Dora liked watching soap operas, Bonanza, and Gunsmoke, and cooking was one of her favorite hobbies. She loved wrestling, Ric Flair, and Stone Cold Steve Austin. Dora had a heart for animals, especially her beloved dogs, Jack, Mollie, Mia, Lola and Ruby, and she enjoyed birdwatching as well. She was always happiest when she was with her family.

Truly radiant on the inside and out, Dora Martinez was a blessing in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She lived to love and care for others, and her devotion to her family was unmatched. A humble example of selflessness, generosity, and grace, Dora was a shining light in the lives of all those around her. She made the most of every single moment she was given. Though she will be deeply missed, Dora leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that her loved ones will forever hold near and dear to their hearts.