Pauline T. Martinez

Pauline T. Martinez, a cherished matriarch, passed away peacefully at the Memorial Hospital of Carbon County in Rawlins, Wyoming, on May 15, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on August 5, 1950, Pauline lived a life brimming with love, laughter, and compassion, touching the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Pauline was a beacon of warmth in her community, never having met a stranger. With her great sense of humor and a spirit that embraced everyone, she took countless individuals under her wing, making them feel like part of her extended family. Throughout her life, she found immense fulfillment in caring for children and was affectionately known by many as mom, mama, auntie, grandma, midget momma, and momma P. She touched the lives of her many caregivers right up until the end.

In addition to her nurturing spirit, Pauline was renowned for her delicious tortillas— a staple at family dinners and a centerpiece at fundraisers for her family’s sporting events. Her gift for cooking brought people together, fostering the love and bond of family.

Family was at the core of Pauline’s life. She is survived by her devoted husband, Jesse Martinez, and their children: Jesse (Jan) Martinez, Timmy (Toni) Martinez, Shannon Martinez (Sean), Heather Church (Bill), and Dave (Shawna) Willcox, her sisters: Julia Rasmussen and Betty Trujillo, Vangie (Donald) Lucero, Rosemary (Keith) Blair, Margaret (Chuck) Blodgett, Pablin (Joy) Martinez, Gloria Robinson and Eloisa Martinez. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Jacob Bauman, Cody Bauman, Nina Garner, Vanessa Martinez, Austin Young, Ashley Smith, Jocelyn Beres, Jerick Martinez, Jordy Valles, Damien Cesko and Derrick Morse. Pauline also took great pride in her nine great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

Pauline's life was filled with simple joys. She loved spending time in her garden with her treasured rose bushes, enjoying quiet afternoons reading, collecting trinkets, and watching golf. One of her greatest pleasures was attending her grandchildren's sporting events, where her support and encouragement could always be felt.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Caroline Fisher; father, Juan Cervantes; brother, Leroy Trujillo; son, Gerald Sisneros; son-in-law, Jimmy Taylor; father and mother-in-law, Pablin and Refugio Martinez; and brothers-in-law, Richard Martinez, Randy Robinson, and Randy Smith. Their memories live on through the countless stories and smiles they shared as a family.

Pauline's battle with renal failure and a stroke was long and arduous, but she fought fiercely and inspired those around her with her strength and resilience. As we celebrate her life, we remember the laughter, love, and lessons she imparted to those she adored.

She leaves behind a rich legacy, having filled lives with love and laughter, and her spirit will remain a guiding light for her family and friends. Pauline T. Martinez will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of calling her mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and so much more.