Joy Martinez

Joy Allean Martinez went home to Jesus on May 16, 2026, at the age of 65. She lived a life rooted in faith and devoted to Christ. She found hope in prayer, strength in scripture, and peace in the promises of eternal life. She shared her faith through kindness, compassion, and an unyielding trust in God’s plan.

Joy was born to Gerald and Winifred David on October 7, 1960, in Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania. She moved to Tucson, Arizona, in 1979 to pursue her degree in elementary education at the University of Arizona. After graduating in 1982, she went on to teach for over 30 years in elementary schools in Arizona and Texas.

In 1982, Joy married James Montgomery. In 1987, they welcomed their daughter, Shayna. James preceded Joy in death on May 7, 1996.

In 2000, Joy met her beloved husband of 25 years, Emilio Martinez. In 2001, they welcomed their son, Grant. In 2012, their son Elliott joined their family through adoption.

Joy is preceded in death by her parents, Gerald and Winifred as well as her brother, Kenneth Taylor. She is survived by her husband Emilio, her daughter Shayna Daugherty, her sons Grant and Elliott Martinez, and her beloved grandchildren Zachary, Audrey, and Garrett Daugherty. She is also survived by her sister, Beverly Jean Zook of Mount Union, Pennsylvania.

A funeral service will be held at Charles W. Smith & Sons Funeral Home (2343 Lake Road, Lavon, TX) on May 29, 2026, at 2pm. Online viewing will be made available. The service will be preceded by a visiting hour beginning at 1pm. She will be buried at Lakeview Cemetery which is adjacent to the funeral home.

Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made in Joy’s name to her favorite charity, Feed the Children (feedthechilden.org)