Gloria Martinez

Gloria Martinez, 53, of Cedar Creek, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026.

Born on August 19, 1972, in Taylor, Texas, Gloria was the beloved daughter of Rosa Bega Pickens and step-daughter of Wilbert L. Pickens, Jr., both of whom preceded her in death. She was also cherished by her late grandparents, Justo and Marcelina Bega of Elgin.

Gloria grew up in Elgin, Texas, where she graduated from Elgin High School in 1992 at the age of 21, flourishing through the Special Education program, particularly under the guidance of her favorite teacher, Debbie Gaston. After graduation, Gloria continued her journey of growth and community engagement, attending a Day Habilitation Program through Bluebonnet Trails, and later transitioning to Amazing Grace Day Hab, both located in Bastrop, Texas.

Though Gloria was never able to marry or have children of her own, she was surrounded by a huge and loving family. She is survived by her big brother, Victor Martinez, and her little sister, Michelle Pickens Valenzuela. Gloria was a cherished aunt to 11 nieces and nephews and a beloved great-aunt to 19 great-nieces and nephews. While Gloria was non-verbal, she communicated her love and affection through her warm, embracing hugs. Her beautiful spirit was infectious; she would enthusiastically wave her hands in the air whenever she was excited. She eventually learned to speak a few words in her lifetime, with one of her favorites being "eat," which she would gleefully declare whenever it was time for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack. Gloria was an angel on this Earth, and her presence will definitely be missed.

A very special thank you from our family to Mary K. DeShay, for the loving care she provided to our Gloria over the last 10 years.

Please join us in Gloria's Homegoing Celebration. Service information is below.