Audrey Martinez

Audrey Martinez, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on June 4th, 2024 surrounded by her two daughters and two granddaughters in her hometown of Albuquerque. Born on August 30th, 1937 to Amador (d) and Concepcion Gallegos (d).

Audrey's life was deeply intertwined with the love she shared with her husband Joe Martinez (d). Their everlasting bond lasted an incredible 65 years and served as an inspiration to all who witnessed it. Together they created a beautiful family that brought them joy.

As a devoted mother to Joel Ray Martinez (d), Theresa Santistevan (Kenneth), Victor Martinez (d), and Erika Cano (Joe), Audrey poured endless love into raising her children. Her dedication extended beyond their upbringing; she was always there for them through every triumph and challenge they faced.

Her legacy continued through the generations as she became a loving grandmother to Joseph Martinez, Derrick Martinez, Matthew Martinez, Stephanie Martinez, Nicole Cano, Victoria Martinez, and Audrey Santistevan-Sanchez.

She also had the privilege of being adored by six great-grandchildren: Serenity, Mila, Zachariah, Liliana, Keanu, and Onyx.

Audrey had 7 siblings who she cherished deeply,  George Gallegos (d), Maria Arias (d), Billy Gallegos (d), Reno Gallegos (d), Jerry Gallegos (d), Lucille/Anita Cox (d), and surviving Brother Barney Gallegos.

Audrey’s early years were filled with fond memories of spending time at her grandparents' farm where fresh fruits and vegetables were grown. Her Grandparents would sell them to the hotels and stores downtown. She attended Albuquerque High School and enjoyed helping the teachers out with making copies for them in her spare time. 

Audrey was a stay at home mom to her four children. She loved being a mother and always put her children first. During her children’s early years of school, she was always making snacks for parties and attending every school function. When Audrey had free time she enjoyed gardening and making flower arrangements for friends and family. As well as taking care of her parents and Aunts. Once her children grew older she took on the job as a sales associate for Avon. Her Husband Joe would tease her that she spent more money buying Avon products than she earned selling it. 

Family gatherings were especially important to Audrey; whether hosting BBQ’s, or Christmas celebrations each year,she found joy in bringing loved ones together over traditional New Mexican cuisine. She also had a love for Halloween and all things spooky and mysterious which she passed down to her two Granddaughters Nicole and Audrey. During that season you would find her outside filling up pumpkin themed garbage bags with leaves and setting up her scarecrows.

Once her Husband Joe retired they spent their time traveling, going on weekend road trips, camping trips, Friday dinners at Ramon’s and the Truck Stop, and most importantly the casinos. Joe and Audrey enjoyed spending every day together working around the house and running their weekly errands together to thrift stores and Northdale Plaza.

Audrey was a strong woman who would not allow anyone close to her to be weak. She always said that whatever happens you must go on, and go on with your head held up high and take care of business. She said to always live in the moment and continue with life even when life became difficult, because sometimes that’s how life is. Life will never be perfect and that was something you needed to understand. Things happen for a reason that you may not understand but God knows why. Audrey was a faithful Catholic and leaned on Christ and her religion to get her through many obstacles that life threw her way. 

May you rest peacefully now Audrey, and know you have touched many lives. Your Legacy lives on through your two Daughters. You will be missed immensely but never forgotten.

A Rosary and Mass will be held at Nativity Of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church on June 11th, 2024 at 8am followed by a procession to Mount Calvary Cemetery.