Julian Ben "Jay" Martinez

Julian Ben Martinez “Jay," 79 of Pueblo, CO, passed away unexpectedly at St. Francis Hospital in Colorado Springs, CO on June 1, 2023, after a brief illness. Jay was born on November 27, 1943, to mother Fedelena Sanchez Cordova and father Benslado Martinez in Sopris, Colorado. After Jay graduated form High School in California, he went on to serve honorably in the United States Marine Corps for five years and two years in the United States Air Force. As a 4th Degree Knight, Jay was an honorary Life Member of the Knights of Columbus and a past Grand Knight of 557, a Lifetime Member of the American Legion and a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles since 1995. Jay’s experience in the Marines played a very important role in his life. He frequently pointed out that the Marines taught him the value of discipline, teamwork, and investing in a cause larger than himself. He would often explain to loved ones how these values contributed to his success in his career path of Management and Sales. Jay worked for Peoples Denver Furniture for 20 years, and we bet you still have the furniture he sold you, in your home! Jay married the love of his life, Rosemary in Pueblo, CO. He would say, Rosemary was his love, his life, his everything. Together they shared their first love of the Lord and church community. They lived for their family and children. They loved to travel, listen to music, visit art galleries, go antiquing, and dance. Jay was a fabulous dancer! Jay was preceded in death by parents; brother David Martinez; sisters Mary Lea DeAguero, Anna Lobato, Viola Pino; brothers in law, Sotelo Pino and Joe DeAguero. He is survived by his Loving wife Rosemary (Bessey) Martinez, brother Ray Martinez (favorite sister in law Mary Lou Martinez); sisters Dr. Betty Martinez, Trudy Price (Richard Price), daughter Julie Coy (Bill Coy) stepchildren, Dr. Evanie E. Atencio (Thaddius Atencio), Andrea Bessey, John Bessey, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, many cousins and countless friends. All of whom loved and adored him! Jay was very active in his community working with special needs adults, he served as a Eucharist Minister and participated in Bible Study Groups. He will be greatly missed by all. Jay will always be remembered for “Doing things his way;” his infectious smile, contagious laugh and his deep love of his Catholic Faith. He was considered an “honorary” staff member at Holy Family Parish because he volunteered at every church function. He will be remembered for his kind and generous heart by always helping others. Jay would always say, “Have no fear, Jay is here! “ Jay was so very proud of being a Marine and his Veteran Status – “Semper-Fi.” My darling, Jay, you made me so very happy. I’m so glad you came into my life. Thank you Baby for the best years of my life. - Your loving wife, Rosemary. The Martinez family wish to extend a special thank you to: Betty Autobee, Dorothy O’Dowd and Lila Sprouse for helping us get through this most difficult time.

Julian Ben "Jay" Martinez

November 27, 1943 - June 1, 2023