Jennie Olivia Martinez Maloney

Jennie was born March 12, 1947 to Margaret Velasquez and Daniel D. Martinez in Kern, California. A few years later she would become big sister to Dan G. Martinez. While both were still very young, Jennie and Danny lost their father to cancer.

She is survived by her daughter, America Martinez; Grandchildren: Mara Slack, Jereth Slack, Starzany Takoda; Great Granddaughter, Nola Belle Slack and siblings Irma Pomerville, Tommy Delgado and Christine Delgado.

Our loved one has journeyed on to join her father Dan Martinez, mother, Margaret Velasquez Delgado, Son, Gilbert Anthony Diaz, Brother, Dan G. Martinez, Sister, Olga Delgado, Grandson, Triston Slack and all of our ancestors.

Unique and diverse. There was so much wrapped up into her little 4’10”, 98 lb. frame. A true 60s’ child. Extremely well read. Organized. Always up to date on current events and political issues, especially, those which could bring on lasting adverse effects. She was very passionate about Native American issues at hand, giving support in the most thoughtful of ways. When necessary, she’d stand up and speak her mind with strong, well-founded facts in support of those issues be it politics, civil rights, current events, issues at the work place or on the ballot. She was artistic, a poet, had a beautiful singing voice and was a fabulous cook. The amount of food that girl could put away would shock you. But, because she was always watching her weight, she’d limit herself.

Her love of animals was her reason for becoming a vegan. Peanuts, bird food and canned cat food and kibble were a part of her weekly grocery list. Peanuts for the squirrels. Bird food for the ducks. Canned Cat food and kibble for the feral cats, racoons and an occasional skunk that she’d feed daily at 4:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., without fail. Jen kept a schedule like no other. One morning she was running late. She said she had opened the door, headed out with the cat food in hand when she saw the racoon at the base of the stairs. He was coming to get her. She said he looked at her like, Move it! You’re late!!! She made her way down to the feeding spot, set out the food and headed back in doors. You see, she fed them before she fed herself. Much of Jen can be found in her most beautiful masterpiece, her name is America.

Jennie didn’t drive, she had no interest in getting behind the wheel. She preferred to walk, take public transportation or the occasional Lyft/Uber. She had a love for running. She ran several 10ks and, at least, two marathons. Up until October 2023, she was running 100 miles a week! She was a champion!

Her sense of humor was like her drink of choice, a Dry Champagne…DRY, YET BUBBLY! If you know, you know.

Let’s toast to the soul that took a piece or our hearts with her on January 23, 2025.

Jennie Olivia Martinez, peace be with you.