Victoria Ruth Martinez, 89, of Sutherland, Nebraska, passed away on January 2, 2026.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on January 8 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sutherland, with Father Sagar officiating. Burial will follow at the Sutherland Cemetery. An all-night prayer vigil will be held the evening prior to the funeral, beginning at 6:00 p.m. with the rosary and continuing until 8:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Ruth was born on November 2, 1936, to Gregorio and Bonificia Hernandez in Sutherland, Nebraska. She attended Sutherland School, where she treasured the friendships she made and enjoyed walking to and from school. On July 2, 1955, she married Silbano "Willie" Martinez at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Together, they made their home in Sutherland and raised ten children. In 1977, Willie built their family home—a place where generations gathered, shared laughter, and made lasting memories. It was a welcoming space full of love and the everyday moments that defined their life together.

Faith and family were central to Ruth's life. She and Willie shared seventy years of marriage, rooted in commitment, prayer, and daily life together. Family meant everything to Ruth. She had a special way of bringing people together, often around the table. Fresh homemade tortillas were part of daily life, and Sundays were reserved for fried chicken. Anyone who came to her home knew they would be asked to eat; even if they said they weren't hungry, Ruth would insist on "just a little taquito."

Ruth's kindness extended beyond her family. It wasn't unusual for her to prepare food for someone she didn't know but felt moved to help. Sharing what she had came naturally to her and reflected the quiet generosity that defined her life.

Ruth worked at TRW, the Sutherland Nursing Home, and most fondly for 17 years at Nebraska Public Power District, where she formed lasting friendships and was deeply valued by coworkers.

Her life was marked by joy and also sorrow. The loss of her eldest son, Richard, at the age of fourteen was a profound heartbreak. Through it all, Ruth held firmly to her faith and the hope of reunion in heaven—a hope that now brings comfort to her family.

In her later years, as her health declined, Ruth was surrounded by family, prayer, and love. The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care she received, especially from Dr. Vuksanovic and Dr. Kanade, whose kindness and dedication provided precious time filled with peace and dignity. Ruth was often heard quietly blessing those who cared for her.

Ruth is survived by her husband of seventy years, Silbano "Willie" Martinez; her children Tom (Amy) of Sterling, CO, Anthony (Laura) and Olivia (Bob) Conrad of Sutherland, David (Karin) of Omaha, Arthur (Sue), Matt (Pennie), Connie of Sutherland and Lonnie (Tatyana) of Centennial, CO, and Catherine (Jose Padilla) of Castle Pines, CO; her sister Angela (Mauro) Sanchez of Grand Island; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her son Richard; her parents Gregorio and Bonificia Hernandez; brothers Elias, Domingo, Demetrio, George, John, Panfilo, and Lazaro; and sisters Jennie Gonzales, Janet Munoz, and Ramona Mora.

God richly blessed us through Ruth's life, and we are forever grateful that He entrusted her to us. Though our hearts are heavy with loss, they are full of gratitude for the love she shared and the legacy she leaves behind.

On behalf of her children and family, thank you for your prayers, kindness, and support as we honor and commend Ruth into God's loving care. Condolences may be sent to Willie Martinez, P.O. Box 142, Sutherland, NE 69165.