Josie A. Martinez, 84, a resident of Bayard, NM went to be with the Lord on Thursday, January 1, 2015 after a long illness.

She was born in Morenci, AZ. She lived in Bayard for over 50 years. She was a wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a member of the Guadalupana's in Our Lady of Fatima Church. Josie enjoyed being a wonderful mom to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was an amazing strong woman what would inspire us to lead a wonderful happy life.

She is survived by her daughters, Priscilla Martinez and companion Higinio of Bayard; Mary Frances Anderson (Jerry) of Las Cruces; Gloria "Shorty" Sifuentes from Bayard; her son, Jack Martinez Jr. from Bayard; her grandchildren, Sam Cabrera and companion Diane, Richard and Amy Sifuentes, Tiffany Martinez and companion Jason from Bayard; Mario Kirker (Nancy) from Denver, CO, Damien Mowery Alaska and Brian Kirker from Las Cruces; great-grandchildren, Xavier Sifuentes, Anaýece and Jason Cano, Naki Kirker, Brian Kirker, Angela Kirker, Damon Kirker, Miakoda Kirker and Julian Mowery; her sister, Rose Zapata; her brother, Narciso Avila (Isabel) from Bayard; several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Francisca and Jose B. Avila; her husband, Jack O. Martinez; daughter-in-law, Denise Martinez, son-in-laws, Richard Sifuentes and James Kirker; grandchildren, Yvette and DJ Kirker.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 17, from 1-4pm at the Lion's Club in Bayard, NM. Cremation will take place at Terrazas Crematory. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory.