In Loving Memory of Evangeline Marie “VITA”Maritnez

With deep gratitude for a beautifully lived life, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Evangeline Marie “Vita” Martinez, who peacefully passed away on August 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 94. She was a proud life long resident of Ranchos De Taos, NM. She is preceeded in death by her beloved grandson, Joseph Apodaca. Her parents Jose Lavre Mondragon, Corrina Trujillo Mondragon, and Domitila Mondragon. Grandparents Teodoro and Josefita Trujillo, Brother Carmen Mondragon and Sister Christine “Josie” Mondragon.

Vita's life was a testament of love, strength, a woman of great faith, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was the heart of our family, offering unconditional love, kindness, wisdom, and encouragement to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her greatest joy was the family she nurtured and the generations she inspired.

She leaves behind a legacy through her nine beloved children, Toby and Janet Martinez, Corrine and Thomas Miera, Rose Martinez, Dolly Martinez, Greg and Marietta Martinez, Christina and Daniel Gonzales, Joella and Joey Apodaca, Victoria and Ruben Romo, Teddie and Erasto Zarasua and 24 grandchildren, Isaac and Pauline Martinez, Melissa and Paul Hordes, Alisha Martinez, Francisco and Crystal Torrez, Julian and Vivian Torrez, Julia and Juan Archuleta, Albert Martinez, Emy and Ernie DeHerrera, Adam and Marie Martinez, Neomi and Chris Standard, Eve and Vito Trujillo II, Jennifer and Marcos Martinez, Gregory and Sonia Martinez, Daniel and Katie Gonzales, Sarah and Gary Griffin, Jeremiah and Moriah Gonzales, David Gonzales, Christina Gonzales, †Joseph and Renee Apodaca, Jamie Apodaca, John-Ryan Romo, Alexia Romo and Troy Harbaugh, Nicholas and Julianne Zarasua, Erika and Pablo Rosales, 57 treasured great-grandchildren, and 9 precious great-great-grandchildren, 4 Sisters, Frances Acosta, Lorraine Gayle, Mary Mondragon, and Linda Serna, many beloved cousins, nephews and nieces, and cherished friends.

All of us will carry forward a part of her spirit, her values, and the love she so generously shared throughout her life. She had a way of making everyone feel like they were her favorite person.

As we all gathered around the family table, celebrating life's milestones, or simply spending time together, Vita was a woman of great faith who loved to pray and read her Bible, something she instilled in all her children. She made every moment meaningful. Her gentle heart, warm smile, generous spirit, and quiet strength will be remembered always. She taught those around her the importance of compassion, resilience, forgiveness and placing family above all else.

Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find comfort knowing that a life so richly lived leaves an enduring legacy. The lessons she taught, the traditions she created, and the love she gave so freely will continue to guide her family for generations to come.

Vita will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered. While we mourn her passing, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and give thanks for the blessing of having had her in our lives.

The family of Evangeline Martinez, “Vita” would like to express their deepest gratitude to Rena Fall, Children Toby Martinez, Corrine Martinez, Rose Martinez, Dolly Martinez, Greg Martinez, Christina Gonzales, Joella Apodaca, Victoria Romo, and Teddie Zarasua, Granddaughter Neomi Standard, Great Granddaughter Mia Standard, and the rest of the family, Jennie Begley, Leilani Gallegos, Teresa Archuleta, Marlene Rael, Nurse Tamara Crawley, Esperanza, Nurse Annette Sanchez, Rudy Baca Jr., Triple AAA, Mountain Home Health Care Staff, Rivera’s Funeral Home Staff, Jacque Garcia, DeVargas Funeral Home, Joaquin Gonzales, Taos News, and everyone else that cared for our Mom.

Proverbs 31: 28 " Her children arise up and call her blessed"

1 Corinthians 13:8 Love never fails.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

Funeral Service: 10:00 AM - Rivera's Funeral Home

Burial immediately following the service at the St. Francis Cemetery.

Celebration Of Life Luncheonwill be held at the Llano Quemado Community Center immediately following the burial.