Shirley Ann Martinez's Obituary
Shirley Ann Martinez, affectionately known to all as “Toad,” went home to be with the Lord surrounded by the love of her family. Born on March 17, 1954, in Littlefield, Texas, to Deoma and Everett Bell, Shirley carried her tough joyful spirit and unmistakable nickname throughout her entire life.
Shirley (a.k.a. - Toad) moved to Hallsville as a young girl, growing up surrounded by her close‑knit family of parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Hallsville remained her lifelong home.
She married the love of her life, Raul Martinez, on September 26, 1983 in a partnership defined by devotion, hard work, and deep companionship. Together, they built both a life and a business, side by side. They made their home in the country, a place filled with peace, beauty, and countless animals. Horses, cows, goats, dogs, and an array of other animals filled their land and their hearts, and much of the home they lived in was built by their own hands. She always had a garden and loved her plants.
To her many nieces, nephews, grand‑nieces, grand‑nephews, great‑grand nephew, and family friends, Toad was far more than an aunt; she was a second mom, a guide, a protector, and the source of endless fun. She taught generations of kids to love animals, to fish, to drive, and most importantly, to be tough and resilient. She was always ready for an adventure, whether riding horses, hatching baby chicks, hosting birthday parties, planning sleepovers, or cooking a warm meal. If a kid needed gum, candy, or a no-nonsense word of tough resolve, Toad always had them covered. She loved them all deeply.
Toad is survived by her devoted husband Raul Martinez; her siblings Coral Nilles, James “Buster” Bell, and Judy Casper; and the many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss her. Her legacy of strength and love will live on in each of them.
Though she will be deeply missed, her family takes comfort in knowing she rests now in God’s care. Her joyful spirit forever alive in the hearts of those who loved her most.
A time of viewing will be held on Sunday, February 1 from 2-4 PM in the chapel of Rader Funeral Home in Longview, Texas.
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