Our Beloved Mother and Grandmother, Lupe Herrera Martinez, gained her wings on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at her home with her family by her side, leaving a void that we will never be able to fill.  We were blessed to have her for almost 96 years, and she will be missed dearly.

Lupe's love also extended to her nieces and nephews who some considered her their second Mother which stayed in her heart to the very end.

Lupe was born in Santa Paula, California on October 23, 1928, to Bernabe Herrera and Tomasa Delgado Herrera.  Lupe was born and raised on 12th Street in Santa Paula, and she always said that she was born on 12th Street and that she would leave this earth on 12th street, and that she did.

Lupe was a devoted mother to Yolanda Martinez Moreno, Richard Jr., Ronnie, Kenny and Cindy.  She was also a devoted grandmother to Lupe Moreno Cardenas, Emilio Jr. (Ruby), Raul and Geno (Paula) Moreno, Alyson Martinez Kovene (Danny), Kenny Jr. (Stephanie), Candace Martinez, Anthony Martinez (Wendi), Alyssa Rodriguez (Fernando) and Brianna Rodriguez.  She was also loved dearly by 24 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren who were all very special to her.

Lupe was preceded in death by her husband, Richard V. Martinez, son, Ronnie Martinez and daughter, Yolanda Martinez Moreno and her siblings, Ramona Cabrera, Josephine Aguilar, Maria Aviña, Carmen Magaña, Antonia H. Chavez, Monico, John, Augustine, Raymond and Manuel Herrera.  Lupe was the last of her generation of the Herrera family.

She was passionate about her job as a housekeeper for many families, who over the years, became like her own family.  She was the best housekeeper, and she took pride in her work, and always made sure that her house was immaculate.

She was an amazing cook, and we all enjoyed her homemade flour tortillas, chile verde, rice and beans. Another family favorite was her homemade hash browns, eggs, bacon, and sausage. Her delicious tamales were a yearly tradition at Christmas with family and friends, and we will carry on her recipes and traditions.

Most of all, she loved her garden!  You could find her outside many days, working on her garden, cleaning up, and just enjoying the outdoors. She always said that she felt so peaceful when she was working outdoors. She enjoyed taking care of her roses like they were her babies.

A heartfelt appreciation is extended to all who gave their love and support during this time, particularly to Dr. Mike Tushla and his staff whose care and compassion eased our burden.  We are also very grateful for the compassionate team at TLC Hospice, especially Vanessa and Marisol for their exemplary care.  A special heartfelt appreciation to Alyssa Rodriguez and Cindy Martinez for their love, care and compassion as caregivers, and to all who visited and brought her goodies or just sat and visited and joined us in the laughter, as she had the best sense of humor.

Though she may have bid farewell to this world, Lupe's love and legacy will forever illuminate the hearts of those she held dear. Until we see each other again, rest in eternal peace, dear precious Mama.  We love you!