Elias T. Martinez was born on January 24, 1963, to Agustin and Maria Elena Martinez.
He grew up in Weslaco, and later settled in Somerville, where he found joy alongside his beloved wife, Ester, and their cherished family and friends.
Elias’s dedication as a provider showed in the many hours he spent working at HEB and McKenzie Sports, a testament to his workethic and commitment to provide. Yet, it was the time he spent at home over lovingly prepared meals that filled his heart with gratitude and joy.
Family meant everything to Elias, especially his grandchildren, whose presence brought him great happiness.
Elias was not just “all work and no play!” His sweet spirit and infectious smile created lasting memories for everyone he encountered.
A compassionate listener, Elias made each person feel valued, and he was always eager to share the word of God and the comfort of faith. Elias loved the Lord!
On February 18, 2025, at MD Anderson, with Ester by his side and a spirit of peace, Elias went to meet his Lord and Savior.
His gentle spirit and unwavering devotion inspire us all to embrace life fully and cherish the connections we share. His absence has left an indescribable gap in our family, but as we grieve his presence, we promise to carry forward the light he brought into our lives, a gift that will forever shine in our hearts.
He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Ester Martinez; five daughters, Amy Martinez (Raymond Hernandez), Jackie Martinez, Joanna Gonzales (Jason Ray), April Gonzales Lewis and Barbara Jimenez (Daniel Munoz);
three sons, Casey Cirilo (Kristen Wagner), Adrian Gonzales and Blas Jimenez (Jennifer); 15 grandchildren, Reyna Martinez, Juan Martinez, Liliana Zamora, Bogdan Cirilo, Jonathan Balboa (Hayley), Anthony Balboa (Gabriela), Tyler Lewis, Mabrey Lewis, Gage Gonzales, Cadence Gonzales, Blas Jimenez, Jr, Riley Jimenez, Mason Helm, Olivia Munoz and Ariana Munoz; three great-grandchildren, Avery Balboa, Jett Balboa and Adalynn Balboa; sisters, Noelia Avendano (Pedro), Velia Reyes (Roberto), Paula Martinez (Hugo), Ninfa Zamora (Guillermo). Brothers, Angel Martinez (Vicky), Agustin Martinez; and numerous nieces (11) and nephews (11).
Elias was preceded in death by both of his parents; brother, Roy Martinez; sister- in-law, Olga Martinez.
Visitation is from 4-7 p.m. at Strickland Funeral Home in Somerville on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
Funeral Service is at 11 a.m. at Community Chapel in Lyons on Friday, February 28, 2025.
Burial will follow the service at Oaklawn Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers will be Casey Cirilo, Adrian Gonzales, Blas Jimenez, Jonathan Balboa, Anthony Balboa, Tyler Lewis,
Gage Gonzales and Mason Helm.
Honorary pallbearers are Sammy Martinez, Javier Maldonado, Jesus Martinez, Rudy Avendano, Guillermo Zamora and Marcus Zamora.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Strickland Funeral Home. They invite you to visit their website at www.stricklandfuneralhomes. com and sign the online register book.