Maria S. Martinez, 77, of Cuero passed away on Saturday, January 25, 2014. She was born on February 4, 1936 in Hallettsville to Pedro Salazar and Inez Aguilar. She married her beloved Pete Martinez Sr. on January 24, 1951 in Cuero. "Mother was a very loving and caring lady. She was always there for everyone no matter the time of day. Wella always knew what to say to make you feel better; she was the backbone that held all our family together." She enjoyed sewing and cooking but most of all loved her family. She is survived by her daughters; Juanita Martinez of Cuero, Tomasa Cano (Eduardo) of Houston, Mary Martinez of Cuero, Gloria Canales (Billy Clyne) of Cuero, Lydia Martinez of Cuero, and Teresa Echols (John) of Victoria, sons; Pete Martinez Jr. (Cynthia) of Cuero, Louis Martinez (Maggie) of San Antonio, and Sgt. Pancho Martinez USMC, of San Antonio, sisters; Theresa Estrada (Jose) of Saginaw Michigan, Susie Alverez (Faustino) of Victoria, Dominga Davila (Uvence) of Victoria, and Belen Pena of Cuero. She is also survived by 17 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, and sisters; Christina Gonzales and Valeriania Martinez, brothers; Joe Salazar, Jesse Salazar, and Martin Salazar and son; Bartholo Martinez. Visitation will be on Thursday, January 30, 2014 at Freund Funeral Home from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a rosary at 7:00 p.m. Services will be on Friday, January 31, 2014 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. Father David Berger officiating. Interment will follow at Thomaston Cemetery. Pallbearers will include; Eric Trapp. Mario Martinez, Larry D. Guerrero III, Christopher Rodriguez, Tommy Joe Rodriguez II, and Octavio Del Valle III. Honorary pallbearers will be; Pam Goode and her grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to; Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church or donor's choice. You may sign the guestbook or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome.com. Freund Funeral Home, 361-275-2343.