On July 18, 2024, Carol Ann Fuentes Martinez, age 62, passed away peacefully in her home with her devoted husband, John, and her sister, Lynda, by her side.

Born on March 23, 1962, and a 1980 Thomas Jefferson High School graduate.  It was in high school that Carol discovered her love for music and dance.  She was a drummer in the band, a part of the Lasso's, and then became part of the high school choir. After high school, Carol attended San Antonio College, where she was part of the Music program and sang the lead soprano role in Mozart's Requiem.  She also sang in the Choral Consortium at St. David's Episcopal Church. You can also catch a rendition of Karen Carpenter's "Merry Christmas Darling" on YouTube. And Carol does give Karen Carpenter a run for her money.  Not only did Carol love gospel music, but she also sang in gospel groups, including Damascus Road and New Heart.  Carol's faith was an important part of her life, and it was her faith that carried her through her illness for the last eleven years.  She was a worshipper, and while the last eleven years made it difficult for her to get to a church, anytime she heard Christian music, she would raise her hand in praise.

Carol had an infectious laugh and a beautiful smile, and her presence would light up any room that she walked into. Carol had a song in her heart that resonated with everyone she met, and her love for music was best expressed through her singing. If you ever had the chance to hear her sing, you were forever changed. Carol was an '80s girl, and everyone who knew Carol knew that as well! Carol's legacy will forever play on in our memories, a timeless symphony of love and laughter.  She will be missed, but we will keep her close to our hearts.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Reverend Rodolfo Fuentes and Maria Theresa Fuentes. She will be missed by the love of her life and devoted husband of thirty-five years, John Martinez, and her sister, Dr. Lynda J. Cruz; nephew, Jonathan Christopher Cruz; niece, Lyndsey Rose Cruz Lovern; great-niece Ellie Rose Cruz; and numerous extended family and friends.

A celebration of her life will take place on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Emmanuel UMC, 3225 West Poplar St., San Antonio, Texas, 78228, at 10:30 a.m. Please wear bright colors or some shade of pink in honor of Carol.