Maria Elena Martinez, beloved mother, sister and friend, entered eternal rest with the Lord on September 28, 2025. Maria was born in Raymondsville, Texas to Geneva Hernandez and Santos Martinez on March 26, 1945. Looking for a better life for her children, Maria moved to Arcadia, Florida in 1988. Maria was eager to learn and earned many certificates; phlebotomist, CNA, food service manager and head start teacher. She worked for many years at Desoto County schools and at Nocatee Head Start. Maria often worked 2 jobs in order to buy a house, but when she wasn't working, she loved to care for her yard, filling it with beautiful flowers, as Maria had a natural talent for growing incredible orchids. She loved to spend time with her family, having hosted years of family gatherings at her home where she showed her love for her family by cooking delicious meals. If family or friends gave Maria notice that they were stopping by, they would be treated to one of her many homemade meals; enchiladas, Spanish rice, mole' or her famous potato salad.

She is survived by: Juan Montalvo in Arcadia, Sisters; Margie Rivero and Olivia Castille in Texas, Brother Micheal Hernandez in Texas and her seven children: Herman Martinez in Washington, Reynaldo Martinez in Texas, Roel Martinez in Ohio, Aurora Edmonds of New York, Ruben Martinez, Eddie Morales and Daniel Morales who reside in Florida. Maria also has many grandchildren and great grandchildren who will surely miss their Abuela.

Maria is preceded by her parents, her sisters, Rosa Hernandez and Dora Mireles and her son, Jose M Morales.

Online condolences can be made at www.pongerkaysgrady.com.

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes& Cremation Services have been entrusted with the arrangements.