Laurel Ann Henneke Martinez

Laurel Ann Henneke Martinez, 69, of Houston, TX, a beloved wife, sister, daughter, friend, and woman of deep faith, passed away peacefully on August 15th, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born in Hallettsville, TX, to Roland and Dorothy Grahmann Henneke. She lived her life with a nurturing and compassionate heart, a steadfast love for others and an unwavering devotion to the Lord. She was devoted to her husband, Jesse Martinez Jr., with whom she shared 27 years of marriage.

Those who know Laurel will remember her for her extraordinary kindness. She had a heart that welcomed people exactly as they were. She was never judgmental, but instead met others with compassion, grace and understanding. She loved people in the way she believed Christians are called to love—with an open heart and without judgment. Her faith was not simply something she believed; it was reflected in the way she treated everyone around her.

Laurel was a member of St. Theresa Catholic Church in Houston, where her faith and love for the Lord were an important part of her life. She drew strength from her relationship with God and carried that faith with her throughout her courageous battle with cancer.

Laurel also found great fulfillment in her career. Her professional journey began at Brogdon Plumbing. She went on to earn an associate’s degree and build a long and respected career as a Senior Project Accountant with HOK Inc. (15 years), where she also served as an associate officer of the firm; previously Ingenium (13 years) and previously CBM (16 years).

Laurel was preceded in death by; her parents, brother-in-law Harold, sister-in-law Rose, nephew Trey and great niece Anabelle.

Family was at the center of Laurel’s heart. She loved her siblings dearly and treasured the relationships they shared. She leaves behind her: sisters, Gerlene “Gerry” (Roy) and Jocelyn “Jackie”; her brothers, John (Waynette), Rick (Kathy), Jim (Colleen) and Jeff (Kem); and many extended family members.

Laurel had an incredible love for baking & cooking, and she shared that love generously with everyone around her. The memories created around her cooking will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to experience it. She also had a special love for animals, especially her beloved dogs; and was an avid Astros fan.

Though her family and friends grieve her absence, Laurel’s legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched. She taught those around her, through the effortless way she lived, that love is patient, compassion matters, and every person deserves to be met with grace and understanding.

Her earthly journey has ended, but her faith gives us comfort in knowing that she is now at peace in the loving presence of the Lord she cherished so deeply.

“Well done, my good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Funeral Mass Service: 11 am, Friday, September 11, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Hallettsville with Visitation at 9:30 am, and Rosary at 10:30 am. Officiant: Rev. Christopher Bediako. Memorials: Roland and Dorothy Grahmann Henneke Scholarship Fund Sacred Heart Catholic School (313 South Texana Street, Hallettsville, TX 77964). Burial: Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery.