Brenda Arlette Martinez

Brenda Arlette Martinez, of Ottawa, passed away Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family and friends. Born on March 13, 1986, in Edinburg, Texas, to Ignacio and Margarita (Dominguez) Martinez, Brenda passed away just one day short of her 39th birthday.

Survived by her parents and loving family, she also leaves behind her cherished cat, Jane, and dog, Lula, in addition to a large circle of friends she regarded as family. Brenda was a steadfast companion to her family and friends, known for always being there to offer support, laughter, and a non-judgmental listening ear whenever it was needed most.

Brenda found her calling in teaching. She was a dedicated high school Spanish teacher at Pontiac High School, making sure her students felt seen, heard, and valued. Before joining Pontiac High School, Brenda spent several years teaching at Circuit Breaker (Safe School) in Peru. She spent her time off working at the Little Soda Pop Shop in Utica, tutoring students in the Oglesby area, volunteering at the Engle Lane Theater in Streator, and more. She delighted in discovering new stationery stores to continually fuel her creativity, and would never pass up browsing a bookstore, bath and body store, or quirky gift shop.

Later in life, Brenda chose to be confirmed in the Catholic Church, finding personal meaning in her chosen saint, Santa Rufina. Brenda's memory will live on in the lives of her family, furry companions, friends, and the students she inspired through her teaching career.

Visitation for Brenda will be held on Sunday, March 16, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Gladfelter-Roetker Funeral Home in Ottawa, followed by a Celebration of Life at 2 p.m. Memorial contributions in Brenda's honor may be directed to her family.

Brenda was a compassionate, unique soul who made the world a little brighter for everyone she met. She will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.

To share a memory, please visit www.gladfelter-roetker.com <http://www.gladfelter-roetker.com> or Gladfelter-Roetker Funeral Home on Facebook.