Marlen Martinez

Marlen Martinez, age 55, of Sebring, Florida, entered eternal rest on Friday, March 14, 2025.  She was born December 10, 1969 in Mantanzas, Cuba to Hector Perez and Norma Perez.  Marlen resided in Sebring, FL since 1993 where she moved from Dade City, Florida.

Marlen fiercely advocated for children and their families as a service coordinator for Early Steps.  She served on the Board of the Children’s Advocacy Center, and loved being a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast.  You could also find her championing, and coaching on the Special Stars Softball team.

Marlen was a member and devoted volunteer at St. Catherine Catholic Church.  Marlen was usually found fundraising for different events, and serving in various roles including Sunday school teacher, Sacristan and Eucharist.

She was a longtime member of the Highlands County Orchid Society. Every year Marlen organized the Annual Orchid Society Show, which is attended by orchid growers from around the State. Marlen herself was a successful Orchid grower of many beautiful varieties of orchids.

Being a graduate of the University of FL (class of 91), Marlen was a die hard Gator Fan.   Known as part of the glue duo of the Martinez family, Marlen would be seen at every baseball game, military event, family gathering, and would be the first to offer help to anyone who needed it.

Marlen was a devoted wife and mom who loved nothing more than to be with her husband, boys, and the pups while tending to her beautiful Orchid collection.

Marlen is survived by her Husband – Cesar Martinez, Jr. of Sebring, FL; Sons – Garrett Martinez (Victoria) of Italy; Hunter Martinez (Katerina) of Orlando, FL; Brother – Hector Perez (Jackie) of West Palm Beach, FL; and Jorge Perez of Hialeah, FL.  Marlen is preceded in death by Father, Hector Perez, Mother, Norma Perez, and brother, Juan Perez.

Visitation with family receiving friends will be held Saturday, March 22, 2025 from 10:00 AM – 12 Noon in the St. Catherine Catholic Parish Hall.  A Memorial Mass will follow at 12:30 PM at St. Catherine Catholic Church.

Marlen had a deep love for her church and for her pups! In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial contributions be made to one of the following:
St. Catherine Catholic Church School
2835 Kenilworth Blvd.
Sebring, FL 33870
https://www.stcatheschool.org/

The Humane Society of Highlands County
7421 Hayward Taylor Blvd.
Sebring, FL 33876
http://humanesocietyofhighlandscounty.com

Arrangements entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
Sebring, Florida