Martha Payan, 61, of El Paso, Texas, passed away in her home surrounded by her children on October 5, 2026 at 9:20 p.m. A celebration of life service will take place at San Jose Funeral Home East on Monday, October 12, 2026 from 4-8 p.m. A church service will follow on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at Word of Life Christian Church. The burial will ensue at Evergreen East Cemetery, with the wake to follow at the Melendez Home located at 11401 Patricia Ave, El Paso, TX 79936. 

Martha was born in El Paso, Texas, on March 3, 1965. Martha's greatest joy in life was being a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Antiquing, thrifting and scouring the Facebook Marketplace for amazing deals were her favorite pastimes. She was notorious for her bold red lips, high heels and ever-glamorous sense of style. One of her most famous talents was her ability to turn any party into an extravagant event. Her love for decorating and curating a home was demonstrated by her impeccable taste. Some of her cherished hobbies were: gardening, shopping, and not to mention an avid collector. There was so much more to her that words cannot capture. She filled her days by attending every football game,cheer competition and award assembly of her children and grandchildren. Some of her most admirable traits were her strength, resilience and beauty. Martha was preceded in death by her grandmother, Beatriz Barba (81). She is survived by her three children: Esther Melendez(43), Ricardo Payan (34) and Ashley Payan (23).Her children-in-law include Israel Melendez (45) and Norma Payan (27). The grandchildren are Kevin Israel Melendez (25), Kassandra Sophia Melendez (19) and Amelia Penelope Payan (1). Her Great-Grandchildren are Kamila Eleanor Melendez (3) and Karolina Eva Melendez (1m) who are loved by their mother Kaelii. She was a treasured member of her church, where she proudly served as an usher every Sunday. One of her most Blessed memories was when she gave her life to God in 2020. Martha was loved by many friends and family, so we ask all of you to join us as we honor her memory. 

San Jose Funeral Home-East

(915) 590-8700

10950 Pellicano Drive