Dolores Leal-Martinez
April 20, 1962 – July 30, 2024
With heavy
hearts, we announce the passing of Dolores Leal-Martinez, a beloved wife,
mother, and educator, who was called home to the Lord on Tuesday, July 30,
2024, at the age of 62, after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Born on
April 20, 1962, Dolores touched countless lives through her unwavering
dedication and passion for education.
Dolores spent 36 impactful years teaching in the Sanger Unified School
District, where she devoted herself to the growth and development of young
children in preschool, transitional kindergarten, and kindergarten. Her warmth
and compassion left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to be in
her classroom. She firmly believed in the philosophy that "everything you
need to know you learned in kindergarten," and her teaching reflected this
timeless wisdom.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dolores cherished her role as a
wife and mother. She was married to her husband, Ovidio Martinez Jr., and
together they raised two remarkable daughters, Primavera and Estrella, who were
the light of her life. Dolores was the quintessential "debate mom"
and "theater mom," attending every tournament, game, and performance
with enthusiasm and pride. Her strong spirit and nurturing love continue to
live on in her daughters, who carry forward her legacy of kindness and strength.
Dolores leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her
family and friends, who will miss her dearly. She is survived by her loving
mother, Guillermina Garcia Leal, and her devoted siblings: Lydia Garcia Leal of
Reedley; Juan Garcia Leal, Jr. and his wife, Veronica, of Clovis; and Francisco
Garcia Leal and his wife, Priscilla, of Clovis. Her two nephews, Juan Quintana
Leal, III, and Jarran Quintana Leal of Clovis will fondly remember their
beloved aunt and the joy she brought to their lives.
Dolores is reunited in Heaven with her father, Juan Peña Leal, and her
infant sister, Mariana, where their spirits find peace together.
A social butterfly, Dolores celebrated her life with nearly 300 friends and
family members in the days before her passing. Inspired by the book Tuesdays
with Morrie, this gathering was a testament to the countless lives she touched
and the love she inspired in everyone she met. Dolores’s legacy of love,
kindness, and dedication to education will forever be cherished by all who had
the privilege of knowing this special woman. Even though we will miss her very
much, as the title of her favorite children’s book says: Everything Will Be
Okay.
In grade school in Parlier, Dolores was my classmate and friend, but we lost contact when we moved to St. La Salle in Reedley. She was kind, intelligent and self-starting. Rest in Peace.
