Antoinette (Toni) Echevarria
Toni was born to Joseph Christopher and Edith Frances Martinez on October 11, 1950, in Santa Barbara, CA. She was a loving daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend who brought joy and laughter to the lives of those around her. Sadly, Toni entered the gates of heaven on August 24, 2023, after a valiant 9-month battle with cancer. Throughout her illness, Toni displayed immense strength and resilience, never losing sight of her unwavering spirit and determination. Toni had a passion for culinary arts and found solace in the art of cooking. She had a knack for finding the most unique and delicious recipes, often cutting them out of magazines and compiling her own personal collection. Her kitchen was a place of warmth and creativity, where she would experiment with different flavors and create culinary masterpieces that delighted her loved ones. In addition to her love for cooking was her passion for making quilts. She enjoyed carefully choosing every piece of material and if you were fortunate to receive one you can believe it was made with love. Toni was a lover of puzzles and board games as well. Toni worked at Raytheon for many years, retiring in 2017. She enjoyed her job and made life long friendships. Her favorite thing to tell people when they asked where she worked was that she had Top Secret Clearance for her job. Toni’s kind heart and generous spirit were evident in all aspects of her life. She was always there to lend a helping hand, offer an encouraging word, or provide a listening ear to anyone in need. Her warm smile and infectious laughter could light up a room, and her presence brought comfort and solace to those around her. She assisted in the care of her beloved nephews Jon and David Barrios, and by thus “Nanny” was born. Toni became Nanny to all that knew her because of her caring and thoughtful nature. Her greatest joys were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She made it a point to be at every sporting event or school event. She was the biggest and best cheerleader always. If she could not be at an event, the kids knew to expect a phone, to hear all about it and to tell them how very proud she was of them. Toni is survived by her son, Gilbert Echevarria. (Marie) of Buellton, daughter Charolette Echevarria of Santa Barbara, sister Edith “Candy” Martinez of Santa Barbara, brother Mark Martinez (Peggy) of Paso Robles, granddaughters Amber Hamilton. (Trevor), Jessica Babcock, Michelle Herrera, and Kristy Echevarria. She also leaves behind five great-grandchildren, Andrew, Brody, Christopher, Savannah and Kendall, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Toni’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of her loved ones. She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering faith. Though her physical presence may be gone, her spirit will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to know her. As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate the beautiful life she lived. Toni’s legacy will forever be remembered, and her impact on our lives will never fade. May she rest in eternal peace, knowing that she was deeply loved and cherished by all. To her family and friends, please feel free to join us as we celebrate her life and pray for her journey Friday, September 22, 2023 at St Raphael’s Church 5444 Hollister Ave at 10:00am.