Eliseo Avila Martinez of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 7th, 2026, at the age of 82.

He was born on May 12, 1944, to Juan and Maria Jesusa Martinez. After graduating from Ray High School in 1962, he joined the United States Army, where he proudly served as a medical specialist. Following his military service, he dedicated more than 30 years to Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD) as a Quality Inspector, inspecting turbine blades used in aircraft engines.

On December 30, 1967, he married the love of his life, Palmira. Together they built a loving family and shared more than five decades of marriage, raising three children and cherishing their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Eliseo had a curious mind and a passion for technology. He enjoyed spending time on his Mac computer and was always interested in emerging technologies and how they would shape the future. Beyond his career, he was always willing to help family whenever needed. He assisted his brothers with their restaurant businesses, serving as an accountant and, for a time, managing and operating Elijio's Restaurant (#2 – Annaville, & #6 – McArdle Rd.). His strong work ethic, dedication, and dependability were evident in everything he did.

Eliseo will be remembered for his quiet strength, honesty, loyalty, and unwavering devotion to his family. As the patriarch of the family, he provided guidance, stability, and love that will continue to be felt for generations. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Eliseo is survived by his loving wife, Palmira Martinez, his three sons; Sammy (Elma) Martinez, Robert Martinez, and John (Crystal) Martinez, his grandkids; Sammy Martinez Jr., Sarah (Tony) Martinez, Stephanie (Bradley) Griffin, John A. Martinez, Nathan Martinez, Adelyn Martinez, and Eliseo Martinez, 5 great grandchildren, sister; Elvira, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Eliseo is preceded in death by his parents: Juan and Maria Jesusa, his three brothers: Ernesto, Enrique, and Eligio Martinez, his sister: Estella, and his grandson Nicholas A. Martinez.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. til 8:00 p.m.  at Guardian Funeral home on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, with recitation of the rosary at 6:30 p.m. that same evening. Funeral mass will be celebrated at 9:15 a.m. on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at (pending approval) Catholic Church. Interment to follow at Veteran Memorial Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. with full military honors. 

Having the distinguished honor to serve as pallbearers are, Corey Alvarez, Rene Maciel, Henry Martinez, John A. Martinez, Nathan Martinez, and Sammy Martinez Jr.