Maria Cristina Martin

Maria Cristina Martin, affectionately known as Cris, passed away on January 4, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on May 18, 1946, in Havana, Cuba, Cris was the cherished daughter of Facundo Ricardo and Violetta Gisela Junquera. She was the loving wife of Jack Martin, who predeceased her, and the proud mother of Lourdes (Ronald) Jones and Cristina (Dan Rupert) Martin.

Cris was a devoted abuela to Jackson, Ariella, Camila, and Micah Jones, and she held a special place in the hearts of her extended family, including her siblings, Sonia Dorta, Ricardo Junquera, and Jose Rodriguez, and as a grandmother figure to Nevaeha, Daniel, and Maddie Rupert.

In addition to her human family, Cris was deeply devoted to her two beloved dogs, Tinkerbell and Betsy, who brought her endless joy and companionship. Her affection for her pets was a reflection of the love and care she extended to all those around her.

Professionally, Cris had a fulfilling career. She worked as a data processor manager at North Dade Hospital in Opa-locka, Florida, and later at Merrill Lynch in New York City. She also worked in accounts receivable at FKI Logistics before transitioning to work as a Spanish interpreter in the Danville, Kentucky area, where she helped bridge language gaps and served her community. However, her most cherished work was as a field representative for the Delaware Raritan Girl Scout Council in New Jersey, where she dedicated herself to empowering young girls and supporting the community.

Outside of work, Cris was known for her vibrant spirit and love of life. She delighted in dancing and singing (albeit off-key) to Cuban music, spending quality time playing with her grandchildren, and coloring with them. She was a parishioner of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, where she found a community of like-minded individuals who cherished her warmth and kindness.

Cris’s family will always remember her for the special moments she created—monthly mother-daughter shopping trips when her children were young, and the Saturday donut tradition she shared with her grandchildren every week. These memories reflect the deep love and devotion she had for her family.

She is survived by her children, Lourdes (Ronald) Jones and Cristina (Dan Rupert) Martin; her grandchildren, Jackson, Ariella, Camila, and Micah Jones; her siblings, Sonia Dorta, Ricardo Junquera, and Jose Rodriguez; her beloved dogs, Tinkerbell and Betsy; and her extended family. She was predeceased by her husband, Jack Martin, and her parents, Facundo and Violetta Junquera.

The funeral service will be at 1 pm on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at Stith Funeral Home in Danville.  Visitation will be from 11am to 1pm prior to the service.  Burial will be in Camp Nelson National Cemetery.

Cris will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her loving heart, joyful spirit, and unwavering devotion to family and pets will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have shared in her life.