Veronica's obituary
Obituary for Veronica Ellen Martinez (Shaw)
Veronica Ellen Shaw, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, at the age of 76. Veronica was born on November 15, 1948, to Mary Ellen Franklin Shaw and Charles Leroy Shaw.
Veronica dedicated her life to her family and to those she loved. She was a nurturing mother to her three children: Roberto Martinez Jr. of McAllen, TX; Bobbie Ellen Myatt of San Antonio, TX; and Mary Angelita Martinez of Anderson, SC. Her love and guidance shaped their lives and will continue to inspire them always.
She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Mark "Deuce" Myatt Jr., Erik Johnathan Myatt, Cedric Antonio Lee Turner, and Preston DonTrell Turner, and a joyful great-grandmother to Imonis, Zhuri and Rahzir Turner.
Veronica is preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents; her parents, Mary Ellen Franklin Shaw and Charles Leroy Shaw; her sister, Joyce Imogene “Bug” Shaw; her beloved cousins, Brenda Irvin and Timothy Scarborough ; her Aunt Helen and Uncle Junior; and her extended brother, Alpo.
She is survived by Great Uncle Franklin Shaw, Uncle Roy Franklin and her former husband and father of her children, Roberto Martinez, with whom she shared 20 years of marriage. As a military wife for two decades, Veronica embraced the unique life of service and sacrifice, and she treasured the camaraderie and lifelong friendships she built within the military community.
She also leaves behind her extended sisters: “Cricket”, “Tiny”, and Debbie, who were a special part of her life. Veronica shared a close bond with her cousins: David (Janet) Scarborough, Debra Ann (David) Hunnicutt, Steve Kelley, Ryan Franklin and many more extended family.
She cherished her bonus children by marriage: Ricardo (Anna) Martinez and Maria “Smiley” (Herman)Herrera, who brought her much joy and love.
Veronica lived her life with a vibrant spirit and an open heart. She loved the saying, "It’s five o’clock somewhere," and truly lived by it—embracing life, laughter, and good times whenever she could. She loved to dance and enjoyed all types of music, from gospel to rock ’n’ roll to rap.
A devoted animal lover, Veronica always had pets by her side throughout her life—cats, birds, and dogs, sometimes all at once. Her final beloved companion was Pepsi Cola, a black cat she rescued, who brought her great comfort and joy.
Veronica also had many cherished friendships that spanned decades. Among her closest friends were Sheila, Brenda, Becky, Nell, and Floramae—along with countless others who became like family to her.
She will be remembered for her strength, warm and giving spirit, infectious laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. Her legacy of love, kindness, and joy lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A dual celebration of her life and her sister Joyce, will be held November 5th in Anderson South Carolina for a graveside dedication at New Silver Brook Cemetery (details to be announced closer to the date).