Jose "Joe" Martinez

Jose “Joe” Longoria Martinez went to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the age of 84. He was born on May 20, 1941, in San Antonio, Texas, to the late Andra Longoria Martinez and Simon Martinez.
Joe was a proud graduate of Brackenridge High School, Class of 1959, and went on to serve honorably in the United States Air Force. After his service, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and Chemistry from Texas State University.
A man of great intelligence and a deeply compassionate heart, Joe never met a stranger. His warmth, kindness, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
He dedicated over 30 years of service to the medical community at Wilford Hall and Fort Sam Houston Hospital, retiring in 2000. Later, he and his beloved wife, Gretchen, moved to Kerrville, Texas, where they spent 17 years volunteering and working closely with Hill Country Memorial Hospital.
Joe and Gretchen shared a love for travel, exploring the world together. Among their favorite destinations were England, Scotland, Spain, and Alaska.
Joe also had an extraordinary green thumb—his love for gardening and flowers brought beauty to every place he lived. His family affectionately called him “Mr. Green Jeans” for his playful, nurturing spirit and love of life.
Joe leaves behind a legacy of service, love, and curiosity for the world around him. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Rudy Martinez. Joe will be dearly missed by his wife of 25years, Gretchen Martinez; children, Simone Higdon and husband, Corry and their children, David Belanger and Joe’s two daughters; sister, Alice Castilla and brother, Adam Martinez and his wife, Patricia and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Diabetes foundation or the Kidney foundation.