Maria M. Martinez

Maria “Chispa” Martinez, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on July 25, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, at the age of 82. She was born on July 22, 1943, in San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, and was the last of five siblings to move to Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Maria led a life full of love, laughter, and a deep commitment to family, friends, and faith.

In 1966, Maria met her future husband, Amalio Martinez, at a bridal shower hosted by Taty in Perth Amboy. When someone asked Maria for a drink, she handed him a glass of water. Amalio walked over and said, “He didn’t really want water—he wanted alcohol.” And so began their lifelong journey together.

In 1973, Maria and Amalio moved to Pawtucket, Rhode Island, where they started their family. Maria worked at Hasbro on the toy assembly lines and served as an interpreter for Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking workers. After nearly a decade, she left Hasbro to pursue her passion for sewing. A talented and creative seamstress, Maria could craft a dress or outfit in just an hour—often without a pattern. Her creativity and craftsmanship were respected and admired by many.

Friends and family were at the heart of Maria’s life. In Pawtucket, she formed many lifelong friendships that brought her joy. Early on, she met Carol Boucher and Bob Szrom, who became like extended family. Maria especially enjoyed spending time with Carol, and her son Shane grew up alongside Debbie, Annette, and Nelson. She cherished the many trips to the Szroms’ lake house, where laughter and lasting memories were shared.

Maria also built deep bonds with John and Shirley Blomenberg, Drew and Doreen Ryner, Sandi Bucko, Jenn Jorge, Martha Taylor, and Donna Vallese. Whether sharing stories, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying each other’s company, Maria treasured every moment with her friends. Their presence enriched her life, and she held those relationships close to her heart.

Maria is survived by her husband, Amalio; her daughters, Debbie and Annette (Chris); her son, Nelson (Christine); and her grandchildren, Caitlyn McWilliams, Jared McWilliams, Hannah Phillips, Sofia Pfister, Serena Martinez, and Ava Martinez. She is also survived by her sisters, Gloria Jiminez and Lilly Ruiz. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jose Fuentes and Maximina Segarra; her sister, Mary Roman; and her brother, Jose “Pito” Fuentes Jr.

In her later years, Maria lived in Florida, surrounded by her loving family. She found joy in cooking, hosting gatherings, and dancing—activities that reflected her vibrant spirit. Her favorite sayings included: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” “Patience and faith,” and the lighthearted “Sheetz happen,” capturing both her resilience and sense of humor.

Maria’s faith was a guiding force throughout her life. She began her spiritual journey in the Protestant church and later married Amalio in the Presbyterian Church. After their marriage, they joined the Catholic Church, where Maria remained devoted until her final days. She prayed daily, cherished Sunday Mass, and often looked upward in praise.

For years, Maria longed to receive the Sacraments and have her marriage blessed in the Catholic Church. That dream came true on October 20, 2023, at Good Shepherd Church. She described receiving Holy Communion that day as a powerful spiritual experience, filled with the presence of Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

Maria will be remembered as a humble, loving, and faithful woman whose devotion touched everyone around her. Her radiant smile and unwavering spirit will live on in our hearts—until we meet again in Heaven.

Visitation is Wednesday, July 30, 2025 from 10am to 12pm with funeral service starting at 12pm at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (Winter Park Chapel), 3806 Howell Branch Rd, Winter Park, Florida 32792.

Interment will follow at Queen of Angels Cemetery, Winter Park, FL.

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