It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Maria Lucita Martinez on June 21, 2026, at the age of 45.
Maria was born on July 18, 1980, in Pasadena, Texas. She was preceded in death by her mother, Manuelita “Mema” Martinez, and her beloved daughter, Alexis Reyes. She is survived by her loving father, Manuel Martinez.
Born into a loving family, Maria was one of eight siblings. Growing up in a large family helped shape her compassionate heart, strong values, and deep love for family. God later blessed her with the love of her life, Jack Howsley. Together, they built a beautiful blended family of ten children and were blessed with fifteen cherished grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
Maria was a beautiful soul who touched the lives of everyone she met. Her kindness, warmth, and infectious laughter brought joy to all who knew her. She loved deeply and unconditionally, cherishing every moment spent with her family and friends. Above all, her greatest joy was being “Momo” to her grandchildren, who were truly the light of her life.
Maria worked for many years in the medical billing and coding field. She also proudly co-owned Absolute Quality alongside her husband, Jack. She enjoyed listening to all genres of music, singing karaoke, playing bingo, and gathering with family and friends for board games and laughter. She was also a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan, proudly sharing that passion with her parents and family.
Maria was her children’s biggest supporter, faithfully cheering them on in everything they pursued—from baseball, football, and basketball to choir performances and every milestone in between. Through the many years spent at baseball fields, she formed lifelong friendships with fellow baseball moms and their families, creating memories and bonds she treasured deeply. Her encouragement, unwavering love, and constant support never went unnoticed.
Most importantly, Maria was a faithful child of God who sought the Lord throughout her life, making Him the foundation of her home and the center of her family. She faithfully attended Grace Church for many years, living by God’s promises and sharing His love with everyone around her. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, and through her faith, we find comfort and peace in knowing she has been welcomed into eternal life in Heaven. Though she will be deeply missed every day, we rejoice in knowing she is now completely healed, at perfect peace, and forever in the presence of the Lord.
Maria will be lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Jack Howsley; their children, Trey & Cassidy, Briana & Patrick, Jaylynn & Adam, “Papi” Jack & Jazlyn, Julianna & Nathan, Joey & Jaylynn, Jannah, Jayla, and Julius; and by their fifteen beloved grandchildren. She also leaves behind her loving father, her siblings, extended family, and countless friends whose lives were forever touched by her kindness, generosity, unwavering love, and beautiful spirit.
Maria’s legacy of faith, compassion, strength, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that one day, through faith in Christ, we will see her again.
J Leal Funeral Home
708 College Ave.
South Houston, Texas 77587
Service
Thursday, July 2, 2026
3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Friday, July 3, 2026
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Interment
Forest Park Lawndale
3:00 PM GT