1946–2026

Thomas Garcia Martinez Jr., 80, went to be with the Lord on October 25, 2026. He was born on July 7, 1946, in Austin, Texas, to the late Gilberta Garcia and Thomas Martinez Sr.

In 1966, Thomas moved to the Chilton area, where he met the love of his life, Erma Riojas. They were married in September 1968 in a beautiful ceremony at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Lott, Texas.

Shortly after their marriage, Thomas began working for Drews Lumber Company in Marlin, where he discovered his passion for residential construction. In 1971, he took a leap of faith and established his own construction business. For more than 50 years, Thomas dedicated his life to building homes throughout Falls County and Central Texas, leaving behind not only the homes he constructed but also a lasting legacy of hard work, dedication, and craftsmanship.

Above all, Thomas was a devoted husband and family man. He shared 59 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Erma. Together, they built a home and raised three sons in an environment filled with warmth, unconditional love, laughter, and strong family values. His greatest accomplishments were not simply the homes he built, but the family and memories he created along the way.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Guadalupe Rangel, Consuelo Trevino, and Mary Luise Cañedo; and his brothers, Pilar Martinez, Cecilio Martinez, Reyes Gonzales, Francisco Trevino, and Ricardo Trevino.

He is survived by his loving wife, Erma; his sisters, Mary Ann Castro, Ramona G. Martinez, and Maria Magaña; and his brothers, Fabian Magaña, Narciso Martinez, Jesse Martinez, and Bobby Martinez.

He also leaves behind his three sons, Christopher Martinez, Pedro Martinez and his wife, Sara, and Adolph Martinez; and his beloved grandchildren, Alec Martinez, Madison Martinez, EzraBeya Martinez, and Maryssa Martinez.

Thomas will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, and the many homes he built throughout his lifetime. His legacy will live on through the family he cherished, the lives he touched, and the memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.

He may have built many houses throughout his lifetime, but his greatest legacy will always be the home he built within his family.