Albert Martinez

In Celebration of the Life of Albert Richard Martinez

Albert Richard Martinez, beloved husband, father, brother, mentor, and friend left a rich legacy of faith, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his community and family.

Born on June 30, 1954, at Providence Hospital in Oakland, California, Albert was welcomed by his parents, Consuelo Miranda and Robert Martinez, along with his siblings Art, Bob, Paul, and Connie. He grew up in a home filled with love, tradition, and strong family values. His mother nurtured him with homemade treats and wisdom, while his father instilled in him a love for fishing, football, and huntingactivities that would shape his adventurous spirit.

Alberts natural athleticism emerged early in life, shining as a winning quarterback at Fremont High School. His talent carried him to Humboldt State University, where he majored in Wildlife Management, excelling in sports such as football and softball and swimming.

Alberts journey of service began at the Port of Oakland, but his calling led him to law enforcement, where he became a Richmond Police Officer. He served with compassion and integrity, becoming a cherished figure in the community, mentoring local children, offering kindness, and building trust. He was respected not only for his dedication to justice but for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Albert also served as a Police Commissioner for the City of Richmond, a job that he was committed to ensuring that the needs of the constituents of Richmond were being properly addressed.

It was during a dispatcher ride-along that Albert met Sheila, the woman who would become his lifelong love and soulmate. His amusing and persistent visits to the dispatch centereven pretending to read the newspaper upside-downbecame the start of a beautiful story. Albert was a true romantic, never missing a chance to show his love in the most thoughtful way, surprising Sheila with fresh flowers, her favorite candy, and even scattering rose petals just to make ordinary moments feel extraordinary. Whether it was a spontaneous love note tucked into her purse or a beautiful dinner after a long day, his devotion was woven into every gesture, reminding her daily that she was cherished beyond measure. Albert and Sheila united in holy matrimony, and together they welcomed their son, Altoris Levar Martinez, whom Albert adored with all his heart. He was a dedicated father who was present and engaged; he coached pop warner football, volunteered at daycare, pretended to be his sons unassuming limo driver at prom and he did impromptu search warrants without a legal warrant on Altoris room. He was the best traveling stagehand hand to his drummer son. He literally crawled into a restaurant to pay for his son’s dinner because he wanted Altoris’s first date to be perfect. He drove to karate

lessons and drum competitions after working long days. He would do anything for his Mijo. He was that DAD! Al was an animal lover who had a police trained Doberman named ‘Satin’ who he thought was the most obedient dog in the world. Sheila had a different view of Satin. Alberts obedient dog would show Sheila her teeth to make sure, Sheila knew she was the lady of the house. Whenever Alberts back was turned Satin would show her pearly whites and quickly lay down when Abert entered the room. He never believed it. But the competition for his affection was real!

Alberts faith journey was ignited one evening when he was invited to speak at Bethel Temple Church. That night, he encountered Jesus and accepted Him as his Savior, under the guidance of Elder Joseph Turner. His faith flourished, leading him to serve as a minister, chairman of the deacon board, president of the Brotherhood for the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World and Chaplain for Richmond Police Department and East Bay Regional Parks. Albert was willing to serve in any capacityeven joining the choir, despite every gospel song he sang sounding remarkably like Elvis Presley! Mexican man singing in an all-black choir – bless his heart. He just loved the Lord!

Later, Albert pursued a new path with the United States Postal Service, working his way from mail carrier to the honorable position of Postmaster, serving in Fremont, Pinole, Danville, and Richmond. His commitment to excellence earned him great respect and accolades throughout his career. Al was an achiever, a change agent and leader to his core.

Above all, Albert was a provider, protector, and encourager. He supported his wife, Sheila, unwaveringly for 39 years, always her biggest fan. He was Sheila’s hype man for sure at the drop of hat he could go from husband to agent. Albert was an old-fashioned romantic, he is showering his love with flowers and gifts. He ensured that he had a His strength, humor, and faith carried him through lifes challenges, and his determination inspired all who knew him. He believed “iron sharpens iron”, mentoring countless men and reminding his family never to give up and to trust in God. He often quoted his favorite scripture ‘I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me’ – Philippians 4:13

Albert was larger than life, unapologetically confident, yet always a soft place to land for his loved ones. Whether meticulously washing your glass before you finished drinking or circling misspelled words with precision, he had a knack for bringing order and structureeven if it drove his family a little crazy!

His kindness extended far beyond his immediate circle. He was a character witness for those in need, an employer who gave opportunity and second chances, and a lifeline to many who just needed someone to believe in them. He was that extended hand to those others would not notice.

Albert faced every challenge with faith, determination, and an unbreakable spirit. He never stopped believing that he and God could accomplish anything. Though he has left our presence, his wisdom, laughter, and unshakable faith will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him. Al was a wordsmith, and his favorite word was tenacity ! He demonstrated just that when God called him to rest. Al’s last gift to his family was a bright and loving smile and a tender hold of their hands. He wanted us all to know that he had loved intentionally and fought a good fight and that it was well with his soul!

Albert leaves his legacy and memory to be cherished and shared by his devoted wife Sheila Debora Martinez, his beloved and talented son Altoris Levar Martinez, and his incredible brothers Bob Martinez , Paul Martinez , and Peter Martinez. He will also leave a special place in the hearts of his sisters-in-laws Tracy Martinez, Jan Martinez, and Gwen Harris, and a dedicated brother-in-law Isidro Gonzalez, his gifted godchildren Sammie Nicole Brown and Justin Brown, his loving god-sister Carrington Holmes, and his extended family whom he loved dearly, Nona Brown (a devoted sister), Joi Rhone, Bishop Kelly Woods, Bishop Billy Wydermyer, Clinton Hendricks Jr., Lorraine Hendricks, Myron Flood, The Adkins Family, The Holmes Family and his adored nieces and nephews and the Bethel Church family .

May we honor his life by carrying forward the kindness, strength, and faith that he so effortlessly embodied.

Rest in peace and triumph, Albert Richard Martinez, a true man of God.