Gloria T. Martinez

Gloria T. Martinez passed away peacefully while surrounded by her loving family on June 6, 2025, in her hometown of San Diego, Texas, at the age of 71. Born on April 17, 1954, Gloria's life was marked by her dedication to her loved ones, her unwavering faith, and her warm spirit.

A graduate of the San Diego Independent School District class of 1972, she was popular and active in school activities playing volleyball and being a Vaquero Dancing Doll. Soon after graduation, she married her school sweet heart Manuel, and she pursued various jobs, such as working as a secretary, a clerk, and a babysitter. Her professional life, however, was only one facet of her rich character. Gloria’s true passion lay in nurturing her family, which she considered her greatest accomplishment. The sounds of “Mom,” “GG,” and “grandma” were music to her ears, and she took immense pride in raising her children with old-fashioned values that emphasized respect, honesty, hard work, and faith.

Christmas was Gloria's favorite holiday, a time she cherished for the spirit of family unity it represented. With meticulous care, she ensured that everyone received a Christmas gift, never forgetting the joy of preparing holiday meals that included her children's favorites, enchiladas and carne guisada, all lovingly prepared with the trimmings that made the season special. Many fond memories were created in her home where everyone was welcomed with love, a smile, and a hug. Grand gatherings, especially those filled with rounds of bingo and chalupa, echoed with laughter and the joy of togetherness, solidifying her home as a sanctuary for family and friends alike.

Her hobbies further showcased her vibrant personality; Gloria had a strong affinity for gambling and loved visiting the casinos to play her favorite “maquinitas.” She was an enthusiastic fan of the Dallas Cowboys, often cheering passionately and calling out plays during games. Additionally, she found pleasure in dancing and singing along to Tejano music. She also spent many hours tending to her garden, nurturing the beauty around her.

Gloria's legacy is carried on by her husband, Manuel Martinez, Jr.; their children, Manuel (Erika) Martinez, III, Rebecca Benavides, and Mario (Josie) Martinez; the joy and loves of her life her grandchildren: Aidee, Manuel IV, Uriel, Marck, Stefanie, Rey IV, Jacob, John Jr., Julius, Brody, Chandler; her great-grandchildren, Dakota, Giovanni, Gracelynn, Aubrie, Grayson, Aerilyn; her siblings, Jesusa (Edmundo) Garza, Enrique Tiblier, Rosa (Ruben) Maldonado, Sylvia (Reynaldo) Zarate, Ester (Orlando) Canales, Fermin Tiblier, Samuel Tiblier, Beatrice (Gilbert) Ramos, Jessica Tiblier, Paula Tiblier; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

Gloria is preceded in death by her parents, Enrique and Cecilia Tiblier.

As we gather to honor Gloria Martinez's remarkable life, we remember her as a woman who lived her faith through kind actions and generous deeds, making a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit will forever shine brightly in the hearts of her family and friends.

Gloria’s family will receive condolences on Friday, June 13th, 2025, at Trevino Funeral Home Alice, 120 E. Front Street, Alice, Texas, from 10:00 AM until 12:15 PM; with Holy Rosary to be recited at 11:00 AM. A Funeral cortege will depart at 12:30 PM to St. Francis de Paula Catholic Church in San Diego, Texas for Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 1:00 PM.

Inurnment will take place at the San Diego Cemetery on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 10:00 AM.

Honoring Gloria as pallbearers are her grandsons, Jacob, John, Julius, Brody, Chandler, and Jay.

To leave your condolences for the family of Gloria T. Martinez, share your memories, or visit her tribute wall, please go to www.trevinofuneralhome.net.