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Tonya Lynn Salinas Martinez, 36, adoring wife, devoted mother, loving daughter, and dear friend to many passed away on December 9, 2009, after delivering a precious gift from God. Tonya was surrounded by her family and friends when she left this earth and was sent on to heaven with a flood of prayers and love.
Tonya was born on September 14, 1973, to Richard and Maria Salinas in Baytown, Texas. She attended Ross S. Sterling High School and was proud to be a member of the Sterling Stars Drill Team, Company A. Tonya was a joy to watch dance and had benefited from her many years at Roush Dance Studio and Cheryl’s Dance Studio. After high school, Tonya attended and graduated from Sam Houston State University where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Tonya was a member of the Chi Omega Sorority. Tonya formed lifelong friendships with many wonderful people that remain her close friends today. She was employed by the Houston-Galveston Area Council where she will be missed by her colleagues for the laughter and light she brought to the office.
Among Tonya’s achievements, her greatest was raising an amazing daughter, Morgan Salinas and the recent birth of her son, Mathew James Martinez. Tonya met the love of her life, Kevin Martinez, whom she married on Jan. 30, 2009. She cherished her family, always committed to being a part of her daughter, stepson, and nieces and nephews’ lives, a shining star that her parents adored. Whether one sat next to her in elementary school, heard her cheering in junior high, chatted with her at work, talked with her daily on the phone, or was lucky enough to spend weekend road-trips with her, Tonya cherished each and everyone with her shining smile and contagious laughter. She was a woman of valor, wit, and joy; she will never leave our memories. We will continue to see Tonya in her daughter Morgan’s beauty and personality and in her sons' strength. Tonya was always Michael’s biggest fan and will delight in looking down to watch him as he turns into the man he will one day become. We will cherish every second spent with them and will continue the dreams she had for her children.
Tonya is survived by the love of her life, Kevin Martinez; her shining star, Morgan Salinas, her loving son, Michael Martinez, and her newest angel, Matthew James Martinez. She is also survived by her parents, Richard and Maria Salinas, her brother, Steve and wife, JoAnn, and her in-laws, Mark and Alice Brumbaugh, brothers-in-law, Kenny Martinez and wife, Sandy, John Brumbaugh and wife, Ann and Josh Brumbaugh; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins and friends.
Rest, our beautiful Tonya, and know we will keep and protect your memories forever in our hearts and soul. Tonya will live on forever as she chose giving the ultimate gift as an organ donor. In lieu of usual remembrances, contributions may be directed to the Tonya Salinas Martinez Memorial Education Fund at Amegy Bank. The family wishes to extend their love and gratitude to all of their friends and family in this time of grief and sadness.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 13, 2009, from 6 ? 8 p.m., with a rosary at 6 p.m., at Crespo & Jirrels Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. on Monday, December 14, 2009, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Memory Gardens. Honoring the family as pallbearers will be Marc Razo, John Farris, Bryan Salinas, Kenny Martinez, Randy Pantoja and Kevin Cagan
Arrangements have been entrusted to Crespo & Jirrels Funeral and Cremation Services, 6123 Garth Road, Baytown 77521, 281.839.0700. To view the obituary or post a tribute to the family, visit www.crespoandjirrels.com
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Gabriel Conejo
I still can't believe you're gone, Tonya. You meant so much to so many. We will see you again, one day. I can't wait to see your face, shining in God's light.
Tara Salinas (Waddell)
My sweet friend, I miss you so much! I don't know how I'm going to get through this reunion without you. xoxo