Lidia “Lillie” Arellano Martinez
Lidia “Lillie” Arellano Martinez, 96, of Superior, passed away Feb. 4, 2018. She was born in Springer, NM to Candido and Ramona Arellano. She was their 7th born of 9 children.
She arrived in Superior in 1936. She graduated from Superior High in 1940. She worked as a cashier at Azteca Grocery Store and at her parents’ restaurant, El Popular.
She met our Dad, Alfonso F. Martinez at a Magma Club dance. They were married in 1944 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Superior. They were married for 67 years. They had 4 children, Lydia Ramona Gomez, Alfonso A. Martinez, Theresa M. Hopkins and Mary Ann Bernal; four grandchildren, Fortino M. and Anthony Rae Gomez, Briana Jessica Thornton and Michelle Noel Henderson; and two great-grandchildren, Addison and Jaxon Thornton. Lidia is survived by her sister, Odelia “Babe” Arellano.
Lidia loved cooking; she made the best green corn and red tamales, tortillas, green chili burros, and tacos! There was always food in abundance at Mom’s.
Christmas was very special for Mom, a beautiful Christmas tree with a special nativity scene, many presents and lots of food for everyone. She loved to have her family, “the loves of her life,” surrounding her.
Lidia’s other love was praying the rosary daily and serving her church, St. Francis. She started teaching religious education classes in 1968. She taught for over 35 years. One of her proudest moments was having Marcos as a student and being honored to attend his celebration in becoming a Priest. In 1994 she was selected as the Grand Marshal of The Fiesta Patrias Parade!
Lidia was given a long and blessed life. She enjoyed and loved her family, cooking and devoting her life to Christ.
“In this life we cannot do great things. We can only do small things with great love” -Mother Teresa-
Superior Funeral Home is providing exceptional family service. 379 Ray Rd., Superior, AZ 85173. Ph. (520) 689-2692. SuperiorFuneral.com.