Jose “Joe” P. Martinez, Jr., left us to rest in peace on June 17, 2021. He was born on March 18, 1945, in Fort Stockton, Texas, to Jose and Maria Martinez.

Joe graduated from Fort Stockton High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army, and served in Vietnam, where he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. He then worked for the Texas proving grounds Bridgestone/Firestone test track, and was nicknamed “The Flying Jalapeno.”

Joe was married to Maria Louisa Carrillo Martinez. His children include Oscar Martinez of Odessa, Texas, Joe Anthony ”Tony” Martinez (deceased), JoAnn Sarabia and spouse Sergio of Midland, Texas, Myra Santana of Midland, Texas, Marcos Martinez and spouse Christina of Fort Stockton, Isaac Martinez of Valentine, Texas, and Eric Martinez and spouse Lupe of Odessa. He also has 11 grandchildren.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife Maria; his parents Jose, and Maria; son Tony; grandson Seth; sister Margaret Mackintosh; and brothers, Juan, and Manuel Martinez.

Joe is survived by sons Oscar C. Martinez, Marcos C. Martinez, Isaac C, Martinez, and Eric C. Martinez; daughters JoAnn M. Sarabia, and Myra M. Santana; and 11 grand children.

Visitation was held June 22, 2021. Funeral services were held June 23, 2021, at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Downtown Parish in Fort Stockton.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at              heritagefuneralhomeofthebigbend.com.