Anselmo “Elmo” Ramos Martinez, Jr., 85, of Jayton, Texas, passed away leaving behind a profound legacy of faith, hard work, and unconditional love. Born on January 18, 1941, in Robstown, Texas, to the late Juanita and Anselmo Martinez, Sr., Elmo was the eldest son of 10 siblings. From a young age, he traveled across Texas and the United States with his family for work, developing a lifelong work ethic. On January 27, 1966, he married the love of his life, Monica Garcia, in Clairemont, Texas, sharing 60 beautiful years of marriage together.

Elmo was a deeply devoted servant of the Lord and a member of the Epiphany Catholic Church of Jayton and the Knights of Columbus. His heart for service shone brightest through his community involvement; for 50 years, he faithfully volunteered to barbecue for the Kent County Livestock Show BBQ lunch. Known for his slow-smoked, mesquite brisket, his passion grew into catering various events over the years. During the holidays, Elmo enjoyed personally providing meals for others year after year.

His career began early, working many years for the McAteer family and the late Z.L. & Marybell McAteer Farms. He spent decades farming cotton, occasionally earning the proud distinction of producing the very first cotton bale of the season in Kent County. A man of many talents and endless energy, Elmo also provided mowing services for the State of Texas and kept his community shining by providing janitorial services for the Kent County State Bank, TxDOT, the U.S. Postal Service, and the Kent County Courthouse, while continuing to work land for various local farms.

Elmo truly knew no stranger. He lived his faith by helping anyone in need without ever asking for anything in return, extending his unconditional love far beyond his immediate circle. He was his children’s and grandchildren's biggest fan, never missing an opportunity to cheer them on at their sporting events. Elmo loved getting to know people and always loved to share his many stories. He had a deep passion for John Deere tractors, good music, classic cars—especially his prized 1960 Chevy Impala—and the art of barbecue.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Juanita and Anselmo Martinez, Sr., and his siblings, Joe, Max, Lydia, and Sylvia.

Elmo is survived by his wife, Monica, his children Ricky (Jodi) Martinez and his children Jordan (CJae) and Korbin (Riana), Ester Martinez and her children Adrianna (David) and Jacob, Paul (Stephanie) Martinez and his children Beau (Kloe) and Kayden, Randy (Melinda) Martinez and his son Raleigh, and Amanda (Kevin) Stief; his great grandchildren, Alora, Jamye, and Luca, and a beautifully blended circle of family, step grandchildren, and step great-grandchildren whom he loved as his own.

Pallbearers are Jordan Martinez, Korbin Martinez, Adrianna Torales, Jacob Littrell, Beau Martinez, Kayden Martinez, Raleigh Martinez.