With love and sadness, we announce that Sophia Rosella Martinez Branch passed away on November 19, 2024, surrounded by family in Las Vegas, New Mexico.

Sophie was born September 8, 1936, in Park View, New Mexico, to Beatriz and Tony Martinez. As an infant, Sophie moved with her family to Denver, Colorado, where Sophie was raised and lived most of her life. Sophie attended Sacred Heart Grade School and Annunciation High School before earning a degree in Early Childhood Development from Metro State College in Denver. She served as the Director of Infant
of Prague Preschool, touching the lives of many children and families, before embarking on a 15-year career at United Bank of Denver.

In 1956, Sophie married Reymundo Branch. Their union was a testament to enduring love and partnership spanning nearly seven decades. Together, they built a life rich with joy and devotion to family. Sophie and Ray were blessed with four children: Veronica Nunn (Sam Nunn), Kathlyn Mead (Bobby Clark), Debbie Branch (deceased), and Raymond Branch. Sophie deeply loved her six grandchildren - Sequoia, Frank
(deceased) Guy, Meredith, Alyson, and Shane (deceased) - as well as ten great-grandchildren.

Sophie is survived by siblings Phil Martinez (Carol), Frank Martinez (Bonnie Shuster), Barbara Coffman (Mike), and Teri Swenson (Dave). She was preceded in death by siblings TJ Martinez, Pete Rivera, Irene Torrey, Margaret Martinez DeLuca, Gerry Martinez, Michael Martinez, and Sam Martinez. She was loved by numerous nieces and nephews.

A sometimes-frustrated Broncos fan, Sophie enjoyed all spectator sports, especially the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Rockies. Sophie found joy in embroidery, and spirited games of low-stakes poker with family. She also had a passion for travel, making unforgettable memories in Alaska, Hawaii, multiple US national parks, and Puerto Rico. Glacier National Park was one of her favorite adventures. And, Sophie found endless energy and bliss in Cabo San Lucas, MX.

Sophie and Ray's journey together took them from Denver to Walsenburg to Pueblo, Colorado, before they settled on a sprawling ranch high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountain range in Rociada, New Mexico. For 15 years, they lovingly tended their home and land creating a sanctuary with outdoor fun, star filled night skies, and delicious food for family and friends.  In her final years, Sophie and Ray relocated to Las Vegas, NM.

Sophie's family and friends will gather in the spring 2025 to celebrate her life, honoring the mutual love enjoyed, and the memories left behind. She will be deeply missed and always cherished.

Rest in peace, Sophie. You were the heart of our family, and your legacy of love will live
on forever.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to St Gertrude Church in Mora, NM.

Arrangements are entrusted to and under the care of Rogers Mortuary, 600 Reynolds Ave., Las Vegas, NM 87701, 505-425-3511 or 1-800-479-3511.

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