Amalio Martinez

Amalio Martinez Jr., lovingly known as “Marty” or “Jr.,” passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 22, 2026, in Orlando, Florida, at the age of 83, with loved ones by his side.

He was born on July 1, 1942, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and was raised there before moving to Perth Amboy, New Jersey, where he spent his formative years building the foundation of a life centered on family, hard work, and humor. In 1972, Amalio moved from Perth Amboy to continue his career with Engelhard Corporation, eventually settling in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, where he raised his family.

Amalio began his professional career in accounting before discovering his true passion in the field of information technology. He went on to serve as an IT Manager at Engelhard Corporation, where he was respected for his dedication, knowledge, and strong work ethic.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Maria “Chispa” Martinez, and his parents, Elena and Amalio Martinez.

Amalio is survived by his children: Debra Brissette; Annette Martinez-Rioux and her husband, Chris Martinez-Rioux; and Nelson Martinez and his wife, Christine Martinez. He was a proud grandfather to Caitlyn McWilliams, Jared McWilliams, Hannah Phillips, Sofia Pfister, Serena Martinez, and Ava Martinez.

He is also survived by his siblings: Awilda Martinez and her husband, Rafael Martinez; Irma Martinez; Angelo Martinez and his wife, Donna Martinez; Edwin Martinez and his wife, Nelsie Martinez; and Albert Martinez and his wife, Nancy Martinez.

Amalio had a deep love for life and enjoyed spending time playing pool, golfing, and gathering with family and friends to eat, laugh, and celebrate. He was known for his great sense of humor and his playful spirit—always joking and always bringing smiles to those around him. One of his most memorable sayings, “It’s my birthday,” reflected his lighthearted nature and his ability to bring laughter into any room. He was a very welcoming man whose home was always open to all—family, friends, and anyone in need of a place to feel at home.

What defined Amalio most was his deep and unwavering love for his wife, Maria. She was the center of his world, and their life together was built on devotion, laughter, and partnership.

In his retirement years, Amalio embraced life in Orlando, Florida, where he shared cherished time with his beloved wife, Maria Martinez, and enjoyed many family adventures—often thoughtfully planned by his devoted niece, Madelyn Roche, and shared with Maria, Edwin, Nelsie, Chu Fernandez, Awilda, Ralph, Irma, Kookie, and Jessica. He treasured the time they spent together and found his greatest joy in being surrounded by his family.

In 1966, Amalio met the love of his life, Maria. According to him, they first crossed paths at a bridal shower at Taty’s house in Perth Amboy. Someone had asked Maria for a drink, and she handed him a glass of water. Amalio, with his signature wit, walked over and said, “I didn’t really want water— I wanted alcohol.” And that’s how their story began.

Amalio’s sense of humor and love for fun carried into everyday life. In their years together in Perth Amboy, Maria would sometimes send him to the store for a quick errand, but along the way, he might “get lost” at the Guyanilla Club—a lively social club—and not return home for hours, much to everyone’s amusement.

Amalio and Maria shared a deep and lasting love. After her passing, he missed her dearly, carrying her memory with him every day. Their bond was a testament to devotion, partnership, and enduring love.

A man of faith, Amalio was a devoted Catholic. In the later years of his life, his faith became especially meaningful to him, offering him strength, peace, and guidance.

Amalio will be remembered for his warmth, his humor, and the love he shared so freely with those around him. His legacy lives on through his family, who will continue to carry his spirit in their hearts. He now rests in peace, reunited with his beloved wife, Chispa.

Family and friends are invited to attend services in his honor:

Viewing Thursday, March 26 4:15 PM – 8:00 PM Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions – Winter Park

Mass & Burial Friday, March 27 11:00 AM San Pedro Spiritual Development Center

“A life filled with laughter is a life well lived—and his laughter will echo in our hearts forever.”

If you have any special memories that you would like to share, please place them in the guest book below for the family to cherish.