Reina Aurora Lopez Martinez Reina Aurora Lopez Martinez

Reina Aurora Lopez Martinez Reina Aurora Lopez Martinez peacefully passed away at the age of 100 in her home of 73 years on March 3, 2025. Born in Cuba, Reina emigrated to the United States in 1943 to pursue a career in nursing. Her educational journey then brought her to Northern New Mexico, where she met and married her first husband, Josue Leo Martinez, before moving to Albuquerque to build their family. Following his passing 38 years later, Reina found love again and married Alfredo 'Marty' Martinez. Nursing was more than a career, it was her calling. Reina began her work at Presbyterian Hospital, later transferring to the VA Hospital, where she dedicated 33 years to caring for others, and was loved and respected by both her patients and coworkers. Reina appreciated travel, nature, and was devoted to her family. She made regular trips to Florida to enjoy relaxing days on Sarasota beaches. As an avid fisher, she loved casting for rainbow trout in New Mexico's rivers. These loves were matched only by her commitment to family. Reina adored her family and looked forward to regular Lopez-Nicolau family reunions where she would retell stories of her time in Cuba and her journey to the United States. While Reina always welcomed visitors and phone calls, loved ones knew to avoid calling during "Jeopardy!" those calls would inevitably go unanswered. She also held a deep, life-long commitment to God. The daughter of a minister, Reina maintained that she owed her strength to her relationship with God. As a longtime member of Second Presbyterian Church, Reina served as a deacon, sang in the choir, and actively participated in Bible studies. Reina was preceded in death by her first husband, Leo; and by her two siblings, Carlos Alberto Lopez and Raquel Tedder. She is survived by her husband of 36 years, Alfredo Martinez; her children, Cynthia Martinez, Albert Martinez (Natalie), and Raul Martinez (Donna); her grandchildren, Dan, Steve, and Pilar Martinez; her step-children, Julie Semenza (Corey), Sheri Delaney (Stan), Brett Martinez, and Shawna Wilson (Everett); and numerous other family members. Funeral services will be held at Second Presbyterian Church on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Reina's name to Second Presbyterian Church.