Samuel James Elliott Martinez

Home. It was time for me to go home. I, Samuel James Elliott Martinez, infant son to Bernie and Janelle Martinez of Longview, was born on August 15, 2016 and called home on June 19, 2017 after 10 inspiring months. I am preceded in death by my grandfather, Reverend Bernardino Martinez, Sr.

I had many titles. Fighter. Champion. Honorary New Diana Baseball Player. And Our Sweet Sam. My job became too great though. I needed to do more of my Father's work. My light was just too bright. I knew love. I exuded love. Young men opened their hearts to their parents. Children knew my name. Grown-ups found time to look at the life that was passing by. See, that was my purpose here. To show love just like my Father shows. Now, I'm doing that for more people and throwing 100 mph fastballs, dropping bombs, and taking bags.

During my 10 months I had exceptional care and support. A very special thank you to my team of doctors, nurses, and therapists at the PICU at Cook Children’s. Thank you for the countless prayers from the New Diana Baseball team and community, so many friends and strangers, and especially to my family. Abuela, Bob bob, and Papa Dale thank you for all of the talks and lovin. Marcus, Isaiah, Alyson, Gabriella, and Maxwell keep going for your dreams full force. Mom and Dad your love grew stronger. Hold onto that. That love is me. God says in Matthew 19:14, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these," and that is where I am now. Whole. With the greatest love.

Services will be at 2:00 P.M., Saturday, June 24, 2017 at the New Diana High School Auditorium in Diana, Texas. The family will receive visitors from 1-2 P.M. prior to the service. Arrangements are under the direction of Grubbs-Loyd Funeral Home in Diana. Interment will follow at Ashland Cemetary. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Ronald McDonald House in Ft.Worth.

Please online condolences at
www.grubbsloydfh.com