Tara Nicole Martinez

Tara Nicole Martinez, 32 of Albuquerque, NM, and formerly of Santa Rosa, NM passed away unexpectedly at her home on Friday, April 10, 2020. Tara was born on September 23, 1987 in Santa Rosa, NM to Esther Blea and the late Tommy Martinez, Jr. Tara was raised in Santa Rosa where she attended school and graduated from Santa Rosa High School in 2006. After high school, she attended CNM in Albuquerque earning her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education. At present, Tara was a Scholarship Student at CNM working toward her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, and was to have graduated from the program soon. In her career, Tara worked as an Early Childhood Administrator and classroom teacher for Kids Quest in Albuquerque. In her tenure, she facilitated workshops for staff and family, and also attained several certifications in a continuing effort to help others. Tara was also a faithful parishioner of Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Albuquerque. Tara was a kind person who was known for her loving smile and a desire to help others. In the days just prior to her passing, she volunteered her time in collecting food and necessities for those in need in her community. Tara loved spending time with her family, especially her niece, whom she adored. She enjoyed shopping, attending Isotopes and United Soccer games and NM Lobos games and activities. Tara is preceded in death by her father; Tommy Martinez, Jr. maternal grandparents; Delfido and Aurora Elevario, uncles; Pat Elevario, Tim Ulibarri and Horace Elevario, aunts; Sylvia Gonzales and Jenny Elevario and cousins; Renee Castillo, Christopher Elevario and Joe Delfido. Tara is survived by her mother; Esther Blea of Santa Rosa, sister; Melissa Blea of Las Vegas, NV, brother; Ricky Blea of Albuquerque, nieces; Kandyce Blea and Kaylei Blea of Santa Rosa and Maleah Elevario of Las Vegas, NV, Godchildren; Anna Castillo and Sylus Storey of Santa Rosa and grandparents; Tommy and Josie Martinez of Santa Rosa, as well as numerous family and friends. Urn Bearers will be Sandra Elevario, Kandyce Blea, Maleah Elevario, Kaylei Blea, Sylus Storey and Anna Castillo. Also serving are Tara’s numerous family, friends and classmates of 2006. Tara was laid to rest on Friday, April 17, 2020 at Saint Joseph Cemetery in Santa Rosa, NM. All services are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 923 S. Third St., Santa Rosa, NM 88435. 575-472-3369. To place an online tribute please visit www.chavezfuneralhome.com.