Katherine Martinez

June 30, 1953 – December 13, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Katherine Martinez, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and dedicated teacher, who left us peacefully on December 13, 2024, at the age of 71. Katherine was born in Dallas, Texas on June 30, 1953, to her mother Esther Rodriguez.

As the eldest of seven children, she became a role model and a guiding light for her siblings, instilling in them the values of hard work, determination, and education. Katherine was the first in her family to attend college, earning her bachelor's degree in education while working at Spaghetti Warehouse to support herself. Her perseverance and commitment to her education were just one example of the strength of character that defined her throughout her life.

Katherine’s passion for teaching was boundless. For 35 years, she dedicated herself to nurturing young minds, teaching children in grades Pre-K through 2nd grade. She taught at Anson Jones elementary, David Crockett Elementary School, and Ignacio Zaragoza Elementary School. Her students remember her for her warm heart, her infectious laugh, and her unwavering belief in their potential. She pushed everyone around her to do their best and was a tireless advocate for education, always encouraging others to pursue their dreams and never stop learning.

Katherine was a loving and devoted mother to two children, Xochitl Esther Saavedra (36) and Jacob Adam Martinez (17). She was also a proud grandmother to her grandson, Logan Scott Saavedra. Family meant the world to her, and she cherished every moment spent with those she loved, particularly during the holidays when she would gather her family close.

Katherine had a deep love for music, often filling her home with the sounds of The Beatles, The Supremes, Diana Ross, The Eagles, Saade, Celine Dion, Andrea Bocelli, and Pavarotti. She found joy in both the classic tunes of her youth and the operatic masterpieces she loved. A movie lover at heart, Katherine was always ready for a trip to the cinema, her laughter ringing through the theaters with joy. She also loved shopping and enjoyed long conversations with everyone she met—her warm, engaging personality made her a friend to all.

Though she fought a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer for six years, enduring multiple rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, Katherine's spirit remained unbroken. Her strength, resilience, and unwavering faith were an inspiration to those around her. Katherine leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and an unyielding dedication to family and education. She is survived by her children, Xochitl and Jacob; her grandson, Logan; her siblings; and countless friends and students whose lives she touched throughout the years. Her impact will never be forgotten, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 19, 2024 from 1PM-6:30PM

with a rosary to follow from 6:30PM-8PM at Calvario Funeral Home 300 W. Davis,

Dallas TX., 75208. Burial mass will take place on Friday December 20, 2024 at 9AM,

Graveside10AM at Calvary Hill Cemetery 3235 Lombardy Ln. Dallas TX 75220. In lieu

of flowers, donations may be made to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.

Rest in peace, Katherine. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.