Cruz Joe Martinez, a cherished husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on November 22, 2025. Cruz “Joe” was loved by his children, grandchildren, and all who knew him. Before relocating to Elgin, he was employed at A&P during his youth. Ultimately, he moved to Elgin, where he met his wife and assumed the role of supervisor at Elgin Butler Brick.
Everyone who knew him recognized that he was charismatic and funny, and they all knew about his strong loyalty to the Dallas Cowboys. No matter how the season went, his wide-ranging and impressive collection of memorabilia, hats, and jerseys was always displayed proudly. Joe loved his family, and they loved him just as much.
His grandchildren made sure to visit “Popo and Grandma’s” house for every special occasion. Joe also enjoyed playing dominoes and dancing. He loved dancing with his wife, Paula, and with his granddaughters whenever he could, and he joined the nursing home's domino games whenever possible.
Joe is survived by his wife of 50 years, Paula; children Joe and his wife, Julie, Lisa and her husband, Raymond, and Tony and his partner, Elny; and his plethora of grandchildren, Brianna, John, Racheal, Angelita, Mercedez, Hilario, Anabella, Zoë, Tony Cruz, Zander, and Jaxon; plus his three great-grandchildren and his never-forgotten Dallas family of brothers and sisters, cousins, and many nieces and nephews.
Joe has created a legacy that will forever be remembered for his laugh, his tight handshakes, and his unmatched sense of humor.
Please join us for a celebration of his life on Tuesday evening, December 9, 2025, between 5:00 pm and 7:30 pm at Elgin Funeral Home at 712 N Avenue C, Elgin, TX 78621.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Cruz Joe Martinez, please visit our flower store.