Rafael Martinez Jr.

Rafael Martinez, Jr. passed away at twenty-nine years of age on July 16, 2020 in Panorama City.



Rafael was born January 20, 1991 in Sylmar, California to Maritza Quintanilla and Rafael Gustavo Martinez. He was raised by his grandmother, Pastora. Rafael grew up with four brothers, and two sisters; his siblings refer to him as Jay because he was a Jr. He was the middle child. He was a beautiful person inside and out. (Seriously. He was one handsome guy.) Jay came to faith in Christ at a young age and served God and his church most humbly. He had such great joy while he did it. He had great faith that God would help him through life as he held on to His promises. He served passionately on the worship team. He started off with sick beats on the drums and then moved on to playing guitar and singing. Rafael could always be seen holding on to a guitar at many events.



Jay was an easy-going guy who loved music and was good at drawing cartoons. He had a caring heart. He worked hard to help his siblings Edgar and Roxana as they became ill. Although it was hard, he did not complain because he loved them wholeheartedly as he loved God. His joy and smile were unwavering, and his spirit was persistent and that of a fighter. This was the case, as well, when he was no longer in good health.



Our hearts are deeply saddened at his passing, but we know that he is experiencing full joy at this very moment. We love and miss him so much. But we know that he has gone on in his new body running through heaven’s gates praising our Savior all day long! He is there with our beloved Edgar, Roxana, and his mother Maritza.



This sweet young man continues to remind us that we must choose joy, even in the greatest and hardest of circumstances. We will forever remember his positive attitude and smile.

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