Jose “Joe” Eloy Martinez, 83, of Alamogordo, New Mexico passed away Friday, November 7, 2025. He was born on September 24, 1942, in Dilia, New Mexico, to Jose and Sofia Martinez.
At the age of twelve, the family moved to Tucumcari, New Mexico where he attended school and graduated in 1961. A hardworking and devoted young man, he held many jobs in his youth to help support his family. On November 24, 1961, he married the love of his life, Corine M. Apodaca. Together, they weathered many tough times to build a beautiful family and an extraordinary life.
The family moved to Alamogordo in 1965. Joe began his long and dedicated career at the New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired in 1970, where he worked for 27 years. Starting as a night watchman, his strong work ethic eventually led him to serve as the Maintenance Foreman. His contributions and commitment left a lasting impact on the school.
Joe’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was deeply devoted to his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Over the years, he coached his kids, grandkids and many others in various sports. He shared his passion, patience, and guidance for more than 40 years. Joe also loved the Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Dodgers. He was elated to see the Dodgers win the World Series again before his passing. Joe also loved his dog, Chloe, who rarely left his side.
Joe is survived by his children, Norma J. Esquero and husband Mike, Dwain Martinez, and Dawnette Pacheco and husband Freddie; grandchildren, Corey Esquero and wife Alyssa Esquero, Gabriella Martinez and partner Reighnye, Dominic Pacheco, DeAndra Martinez and partner Alexes, and Isabel Martinez; great grandchildren, Daytona Esquero, Ayden Esquero, Bristol Esquero, Aubrianna Cox, Kipp Esquero, a new great grandbaby to come (Esquero); great-great grandson, Brixton Pedraza; brother, Ernesto "Ernie" Martinez and wife Melanie; sister, Elizabeth "Betty" Frye; half-sister, Billy Jean Maestas; sister-in-law, Gloria Mulnix and her husband Dennis; many nieces and nephews.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Sofia Martinez; his beloved wife, Corine Martinez; his brothers Johnny, Tony and Albert; his grandson, Gabriel Esquero; great grandson, Jhett Esquero.
Services to celebrate and honor Joe's life will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Alamogordo, New Mexico. Visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 10:30 am. Rosary will be recited at 10:30 am with Mass celebrated at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at Immaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery.
Joe was the bedrock of his family. Joe showed kindness and compassion throughout his life. He will be remembered for his extraordinary generosity to others and the countless lives he touched.
The Martinez family have entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home.
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