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Esthela Martinez, a resident of Livingston, CA, lived a life rooted in love, service, and compassion for others. She was born on October 31, 1959 in Zapotiltic, Jalisco, Mexico. She entered into heavenly rest on January 20, 2026 at home, surrounded by her family. For 42 years, she dedicated her heart and her work to Migrant Education with the Merced County Office of Education, where she became a steady source of guidance, comfort, and hope for countless students and families, especially those navigating life in a new country and language. At 14, she arrived in the United States with dreams in her heart, courage in her step, and a determination that guided the rest of her journey. After graduating from Livingston High School in 1977, she chose a path of service, giving back to the very communities she understood so well. She believed deeply in education, but even more in people. She met families where they were, listened without judgment, and offered help with patience and kindness. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering dedication left a lasting impression on everyone she met. To her, work was never just a job; it was a calling shaped by love, empathy, and a desire to help other succeed. Outside of her, she found joy in simple moments. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, sharing meals, and celebrating life’s blessings with laughter and gratitude. She especially cherished time with her children and grandchildren. Her faith was unwavering. She was a parishioner at Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus, Livingston. Above all, Esthela loved deeply. She loved her family, her friends, and the many lives she touched along the way. She leaves behind a wonderful family and cherished friends who will forever hold her memory close. Her legacy will live on in the strength of the families she supported, the students she uplifted, and the countless hearts she changed throughout her kindness. Her light will continue to shine through every life she touched. Esthela leaves behind her beloved husband, Leonel Salgado; her sons, Jose Martinez Salgado and Hugo Martinez Salgado (Sandra); her daughter, Silvia Martinez Salgado; her granddaughters, Marisol and Melodie; her grandsons, Hugo and Diego; and her brother, Refugio “Cuco” Martinez. She was preceded in death by her parents, Porfirio Martinez and Clemencia Zamora. A visitation will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, followed by a rosary at 6:00 p.m, at Turlock Funeral Home, 425 N. Soderquist Rd., Turlock, CA 95830. A funeral mass will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026 at Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus, Livingston, 330 Franci St., Livingston, CA 95334. Following the mass, Esthela will be laid to rest at Turlock Memorial Park, 575 N. Soderquist Rd., Turlock, CA 95380. The family invites friends and loved ones to join them for a reception following the services at 5:00 p.m. at Turlock Senior Center, 1191 Cahill St., Turlock, CA 95380.

Tributes

Esthela Martinez

October 31, 1959 - January 20, 2026