Ernest Torres Martinez
Ernest Torres Martinez, 90, was peacefully called home to the Lord on June 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Ernest touched countless lives with his encouraging spirit, gentle wisdom, and unwavering commitment to serving others.
Born in Ventura, California, Ernest was the youngest of eleven children born to Maximo and Savina Martinez, who immigrated from Teocaltiche, Mexico. In 1942, the family settled in Carpinteria, where they built their home and raised their children. After the passing of his mother on Christmas Day in 1943, Ernest was lovingly raised by his sister, Lupe Arrellano, along with his father and older brothers.
Ernest graduated from Carpinteria High School where he played the clarinet in the school band and participated on the football team. Following in his brother’s footsteps, he proudly served in the United States Army from January 1958 to January 1964, achieving the rank of sergeant. In 1961, Ernest married the love of his life, Jennie Aguilar. Together, they built a beautiful life grounded in faith and family, raising five children and later welcoming many grandchildren and great-grandchildren into their lives.
A man of quiet strength and deep devotion, Ernest spent 35 years working at Infrared Industries. Throughout his working years and beyond, he remained a faithful member of St. Joseph Parish, serving as a eucharistic minister and actively participating in SEARCH retreats alongside Jennie. With a heart for service, he offered compassion and counsel to those incarcerated in local jails and juvenile detention centers.
After retiring, Ernest continued to give back to his community. He managed the garden department at Home Improvement part-time and remained dedicated to his volunteer work. Upon moving to Santa Ynez, Ernest alongside Jennie worked closely with Mission Santa Ynez, People Helping People, and St. Vincent de Paul. In his later years, he settled in Santa Barbara, where he continued nurturing his faith through Bible study and remained active in his walking club.
Ernest’s greatest joy came from time spent with family. His warm smile could brighten any room, and his gentle nature made everyone feel at home. He found deep peace in his garden, where he lovingly tended to flowers—especially those for Jennie—expressing his boundless love through simple, heartfelt acts.
Ernest was preceded in death by his parents, Maximo and Savina, and his ten siblings: Augustin, Refugio, Jess, Albert, Joe, Lupe, Max, Mike, Lorenzo, and Jack and is now joyfully reunited with them.
Ernest is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Jennie Martinez; his children: Angel Martinez (Rachel), Sabina Martinez, Mark D. Martinez, Sylvia Martinez-Tippets (Thad), and Armando Martinez; his grandchildren: Liana Campos, Mario Martinez, Octavio Campuzano (Tanasia), Rebecca Campuzano Martinez (Alex), Leticia Campuzano Rivera (Eric), Sonia Lo Dolce (Cinzia), Martica Martinez, Remy Martinez, Mark E. Martinez, Sebastian Martinez, and Annette Martinez; fourteen great-grandchildren; and sisters-in-law, Cathie Martinez and Mercy Martinez.
Services
A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at San Roque Church, followed by graveside services at Calvary Cemetery in Santa Barbara. A private reception will follow the interment.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ernest’s memory to San Roque Church or the Monastery of Poor Clares in Santa Barbara.
