Ernesto (Ernie) Martinez

Our dear friend, Ernesto (Ernie) Martinez of Thomaston, Ga., passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025. He was born November 10, 1944, in Laredo, Texas to the late Carlos and Antonia Martinez.

     Ernie spent lots of time with his children as they were growing up. They enjoyed fishing as well as camping and took many trips to enjoy the outdoors. Ernie also liked to work with his hands, using both wood and cloth to make furniture creations. He was an avid reader and could spend hours lost in a book. Ernie was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses for most of his life, being baptized in 1960. He served as an elder in his congregation for many years. He was active in a worldwide teaching program, helping his neighbors learn Bible truths.

     He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Nancy Smith; his sons, Ernesto (Ernie, Jr.); Darren (Christy) Martinez; his daughters, DeAnna Martinez, Angelique Lea Martinez; and five cherished grandchildren, Kayla, Devin, Elena, Arthur Lee, Megan. Great grandchildren, Kamdyn deceased, Lyric. Siblings and spouses: Maria (Neil) LaFollette; Olga (Mark) Keirsey; Carlos (Irma) Martinez deceased; Antonia (Denise) Martinez; Joyce Martinez deceased.