Lily J. Martin Jan. 29,1927 – Jan. 18, 2021

An angel called our mother home on January 18, 2021, 11 days shy of her 94th birthday.

Lily is remembered for her generous nature and the many kindnesses she bestowed on others. An exemplary role model - her door and kitchen were always open – in times of struggle, she was a reliable shoulder and second mom to many. Preceded in death by her husband, Ditino, and her son, Arnie, Lily leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of her six surviving children, eight grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and large extended family. Born in San Benito, Texas, Lily married Ditino on his return home from WW II. In 1954 they moved to California, for a short time living in Alviso before settling in Ukiah. She is survived by her children, Olga Martin Steele (Jim), Yolanda Martin, Ditino Martin Jr., Marie Averill (Dan), Ana Martin and Alex Martin. Lily volunteered with the Catholic Church and was active in the Concelio Latinoamericano, the first organization to support and advocate for the Ukiah Spanish speaking community. She retired in 1986 as Mendocino County’s first Spanish interpreter. Lily valued her citizenship and was instrumental in helping many of the early Latino families gain theirs.

Lily spent her final years hosting, feeding and caring for family, friends and her beloved grandchildren including: Jimmy Brown (Stephanie) and his 3 children, Jason, Sara and Elizabeth; Laurissa Freels (Nathan) and their two children, Jackson and Mason; Michele Gordon (Jeff) and her son Zachary; Jennifer Stroeble (Mike) and their 3 children, Taylor, Peyton and Brendon; Kristina Averill (Michael); Erin Koybayashi (Kevin) and their son, Quinn; Hermano Moore and his child, Aliya; and Liliana Martin. The eldest of 12, Lily is also survived by her sisters Nena Martinez (Frank), Marta Longoria, Paula Garcia (Manuel), and Romeo Naranjo (Inocencia) as well as many nephews and nieces across the US. She was especially close to her nephew, Overlin Tijerina and her cousin, Elodia Salazar. To the many relatives and friends not mentioned, know that Lily’s heart was boundless, she loved you all.

We are comforted in the knowledge that Lily took her last earthly breath with her loving daughter and caretaker, Ana, at her side. Please join our family for a mass in Lily’s honor at St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church, 900 S. Oak St., Ukiah on Friday, January 29 at 11:30 AM. Masks are required.

Lily will be laid to rest along-side her beloved husband in a private, family only, ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Hospice of Ukiah, Inc., 620

S. Dora St., Ukiah, CA 95482.