Benito Martinez Lara

Benito Martinez Lara Jr., 72, a man known for his infectious laughter, pristine cowboy boots, and a heart full of love, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family. He is now reunited in heaven with his parents and his beloved brother Javier.

Born in 1953 in Ciudad Juárez, Benito was the son of Benito Martinez Ceniceros and Soledad Lara Quiñonez, and the third oldest of six spirited siblings — brothers Martin, Javier (who preceded him in death), and Hector, and sisters Yolanda and Leticia.

From an early age, Benito showed the world what hard work and determination looked like. As a youngster, he sold gum and worked in drywall texture to support his first love: cars. He had a special eye for them — trucks, rides, anything with wheels — and took great pride in earning every one through dedication and perseverance. That same work ethic carried him into the career that would define nearly five decades of his life. Benito spent more than 48 years in the drywall taping and texture industry, working alongside three of his brothers — a bond strengthened through shared labor, laughter, and lifelong brotherhood. He was proud of the work he did, but even more proud of the life and family it allowed him to build. The drywall trade brought Benito and his family from Ciudad Juárez to Albuquerque, where they created a life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and community.

Benito met the love of his life and lifelong partner in 1970, Maria de Lourdes Martinez. For 55 beautiful years, they walked through life side by side, sharing every joy, challenge, and blessing together. Together, they raised three children: Claudia Payan (Juan Payan), Sandra Lopez (Manuel Lopez), and Benito Martinez III (Chriselle Martinez). Benito never missed an opportunity to tell others how proud he was of each of them.

Nothing, however, brought Benito more joy than his grandchildren — his beloved Pollitos. Daniela, Benito IV, Josemanuel, Maya, Sebastian, and Alejandro were the light of his life, and he loved each of them wholeheartedly. More recently, his heart grew even fuller with the arrival of his great-grandchild, Etzio Valentín.

Benito found happiness in life’s simple and beautiful moments. Each morning, he laced up his shoes and went for a walk. Each evening, he relaxed on his favorite barstool at home, filling the house with the sounds of classic corridos and sierreño music while enjoying the comfort of being surrounded by family. His love for music became part of his legacy — passed from him to his children and grandchildren — a melody that will continue to echo through generations.

Above all else, Benito had a gift for making people feel loved and welcomed. He was funny, quick-witted, and unforgettable. He could meet someone once and give them a nickname they would carry forever. He made strangers feel like lifelong friends, and his laughter had a way of bringing everyone together.

And Benito always carried himself with style. His cowboy hats and boots were never an afterthought — always flashy, perfectly color-coordinated, and worn with pride. He wore them the same way he lived his life: with confidence, joy, charm, and just enough swagger to make everyone smile.

Benito Martinez Lara Jr. leaves behind a loving wife, devoted children, cherished grandchildren, treasured family members, and countless friends whose lives were made brighter simply by knowing him. His laughter, stories, music, and love will live on in all who knew him. ¡Y Arriba Chihuahua!