Orlando E. Martinez

Orlando E. Martinez, 88, of Chimayó, New Mexico, was born on June 18, 1937, and passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of many years, Marquita Martinez; his parents, Teresita and Esquipula Martinez; his in-laws, Plajeres and Onofre; his sons, Leroy, Escolastico, Jerry, and Ricky Martinez; grandchildren April, Shaun, Derrick, Anthony, and Jerome Martinez; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Floyd and Celina, Carlos, Raymond and Concha, and Horacio Martinez; son-in-law Johnny Trujillo; and brother-in-law Jimmy Salazar.

He is survived by his daughters: Orlinda (Rocky), Lorraine (Ronnie) Martinez, and Darlene Trujillo; his sister, Ida Salazar; and his grandchildren: Rosie (Alex), Joseph, Mandy, Natalie, Nicole, Isaac, Andres, Esmer (Desirae), Ricky, Lawrence, and Jeranda. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren: Nicholas, Amara, Brandon, Angelina, Jaira, Jayden, Adan, Juana, Osvaldo, Shaun Jr., Christin, Alisha, Derrick Jr., and Ryann; three great-great-grandchildren; and numerous other family members and dear friends.

Orlando was a proud and hardworking man, employed for many years through Laborers' Local 16. He was deeply devoted to his family and found joy in life’s simple pleasures—taking long rides with his daughters, sitting outside with his dog Blue, cruising in his Monte Carlo, and attending lowrider car shows. He enjoyed spending time with loved ones and always carried a smile and a good laugh. He especially loved watching classic Westerns—his favorites being Gunsmoke and The Rifleman. Orlando also loved going to the casino leisurely with his daughters and treating himself to a good steak afterward. He took great pride in his appearance and was lovingly nicknamed "Tops", known for always looking sharp and carrying himself with dignity.

A Rosary will be held on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Chimayó, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Burial to follow at Nuestra Señora de Dolores Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be: Ronnie Martinez, Esmer Martinez, Rocky Chavez, Martin Martinez, Alex Trujillo, and Nicolas Griego.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks for the many calls, visits, and food received during this time. Special thanks to Amber Care Hospice team for their support and care. Special thanks to Father Sebastian Lee for last rites and mass as well as the staff at the parish office. Finally, to Rivera Funeral Home for their compassionate care during this difficult time.