Dilia C. Martinez

Dilia Consuelo Martinez was called to her heavenly home on April 13, 2025 at the beautiful age of 98. Dilia was born on March 15, 1927 to Juan Manuel and Higinia Martinez of Taos. She is now rejoicing in heaven with her parents, her siblings Roberto, Elias, Alicia (elder), Andrea, Aurora, Guillermo, Luis, and Alicia (younger). Dilia is survived by many loving nieces, nephews, relatives, and special friends.

Dilia grew up on the ranch next to her family’s Martinez Hacienda. After high school, she attended UNM where she worked as a nanny for then UNM President, Thomas L. Popejoy. Joining family in the late 1940s, Dilia moved to San Francisco and spent many years working at the Bank of America as a teller, translator and loan officer. In 1986 Dilia retired and returned to Taos where she enjoyed visiting with family and friends, attending community events, going to Smiths, listening to music on the Taos Plaza, and enjoying meals at Orlando’s, Taos Diner, El Taoseño, and other places around town.

Dilia was a loving aunt and we have fond memories of her visits to Taos, bringing presents from San Francisco including salami, sourdough bread, and other unique, beautiful gifts. She was an avid reader and her knowledge of Taos history was shared with nieces, nephews & visitors alike. She was generous with her quick wit, love, and laughter throughout her life.

Dilia was loved and cared for by many, including special nieces Carmela, Anna, Libby and Jamie; caregivers Ruby Mondragon and Dora Aragon. Countless delicious meals were provided by Jana and Lee. Special thanks to the health care provided these last few weeks from Christine, Maria, Connie, and Mountain Home Health Care staff.

Mass of Catholic burial will be held on Tuesday, April 29 at 10:00AM at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Taos followed by a private burial.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Cissy Vargas Scholarship fund (checks payable to Dr. Edward Lee Vargas) which provides scholarships for students pursuing degrees in Special Ed or professions that will be of service to others.

The family of Dilia Consuelo Martinez has entrusted the care of their loved one to the caring staff of DeVargas Funeral Home of Taos. 866-657-4019 www.devargastaos.com