Rachel Martinez Ornelas

With love and gratitude, we honor the life of Rachel Ornelas, who passed away on March 15, 2025, in Odessa, Texas, at the age of 79. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who touched the lives of many with her kindness and strength.

Rachel was born in Sweetwater, Texas, to Pascual and Felipa Martinez on August 28, 1946. She married Joe Julian Ornelas Sr. on January 23, 1965, and together they built a life filled with love, family, and hard work. They owned and operated Stylist Beauty and Barber Shop, where Rachel worked alongside her husband, known fondly as “Joe the Barber.” After his passing, she pursued a new career and found fulfillment working for ECISD at Austin Montessori Elementary School.

Rachel found joy in crocheting, tending to her yard, and preparing meals for the people she loved. Her family meant everything to her, and she cherished the time spent with her grandchildren. A woman of faith, she was a dedicated member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Joe Julian Ornelas Sr.; grandson, Mark Garcia; brothers, Manuel Martinez, Elias Martinez, Daniel Martinez, and Pascual Martinez Sr.; and sisters, Michaela Alcala, Margaret Lopez, Rosalva Orona, and Ester Cordova.

She is survived by her children, Laura Martinez and husband Roy of Coyanosa, Joel Ornelas and wife Esmeralda, Celina Ornelas, Joe Julian Ornelas Jr. and wife Elisa, all of Odessa. She also leaves behind her sisters, Eva Ornelas and Eloisa Martinez of Sweetwater, Texas; along with 15 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews; and extended family members who will always carry her memory with them.

Pallbearers will be Edward Saldana, Felipe Saldana, Joquel Ornelas, Joel Ornelas Jr., Julian Sais, and Raymond Garcia.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Chris Sais, Draven Saldana, and D’mario Saldana.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home.

Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, officiated by Elder Heli Contreras, followed by burial at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

The family is deeply grateful to the hospice nurses, caregivers, and everyone who offered their support and kindness during this time.