Muriel Martinez

Our beloved Mother, Muriel Martinez, age 90, formerly of Spokane, passed away August 17th, 2020 in Sunnyside, Washington. 

Muriel was born on January 10, 1930 in Manchester, England to her parents, Thomas & Rebecca Winstanley. She was the second eldest to sisters Edna, Margaret, Brenda, Pauline and brother Tom. Muriel met the love of her life, Tony, while he was stationed at the Royal Airforce base Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, England. They were soon married on August 27, 1955 in Manchester, England. His military transfer led them to Fairchild AFB in Spokane, WA. where he served until his retirement in 1967. They quickly purchased their first and forever home and together raised their three boys; Ray, Tom and Dave. Muriel received her American Citizenship in 1998. They were married for 46 wonderful years until Tony’s passing in 2001. 

Her passion for sewing began in the UK working as a seamstress and continued for many years after she was given her first sewing machine as an Anniversary gift. She could make or mend anything including clothing, bedding, & drapery. Nothing was ever wasted...always finding a way to make the old look new again. She also worked as a Nanny and loved those children as her own. Muriel was a selfless and dedicated wife, mother and grandmother and spent her life providing for her family anyway she could. 

She loved listening to a variety of music; from Gospel Hymns to Elvis to Big Band. She liked playing cards (especially Casino) and spending time outside tending to her garden. Her family enjoyed camping, day trips to Lake Coeur D’ Alene and vacationing in Canada. She loved cooking, especially when asked to make her famous Yorkshire Pudding and Tarts. She looked forward to the monthly outings with her British Ladies group where they shared a common bond over tea. Mom was known for being an especially good listener, a loyal and thoughtful friend, and loved having a good laugh. 

The remaining years of her life were spent in Sunnyside, WA with her son Dave, his wife Liz, their children and her large family. Our sweet Muriel was welcomed with many open arms and was loved by everyone. It didn't take her long to transition from the city and settle into the country way of life. She made her little house a home and loved spending time with her grandchildren everyday. Mom lived a long and full life filled with love, family, and friendships. We were so blessed to have her in our lives and are thankful to have a lifetime of beautiful memories to remember her by. She will be greatly missed.  

Muriel is survived by her sons: Ray Martinez of Boise, Idaho, Tom (Kathy) Martinez of San Antonio, TX and David (Elizabeth) Martinez of Sunnyside, WA, her brother Tom Winstanley (Margaret) and sisters Edna and Brenda of Manchester, England and grandchildren Andrew, Paul, Timmy, Daniel, Analisa and Jacob. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Tony, & her sisters Pauline and Margaret.

A private celebration of life will be held for family on Saturday, August 22, 2020. Those wishing to sign Muriel's online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com  Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.   

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