Carol Ann Martinez, 80, of Knob Noster, Missouri, passed away unexpectedly October 9th, 2024.

She moved to Kansas City, MO in her late teens, where she met the love of her life and married for 56 years. She is survived by her husband Rafael Martinez, and three beautiful daughters Julie Sirna (Anthony Jr.), Mindy Garcia (Fransisco), and Pilar Bedolla. She is also survived by her grandchildren Valerie McQuillan (Thomas), Ryan Martinez, Alexis Sirna, Selena Madrigal (Jessica), Andrea Sirna, Vanessa Bedolla, Nina Sirna, Alyssa Sirna, Diego Garcia, and Dante Garcia; along with seven great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents Arthur and Florence Mendenhall.

Carol converted to Catholicism and raised her children and grandchildren in Catholic schools and church. She worked as a dispatcher for Southwestern Bell for over 30 years, where she met many lifelong friends. Friends whom she stayed in touch with to this very day.

Carol Ann was an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to all. She knew no stranger, and made everyone in the room feel loved and important. Carol loved to shop, had the best fashion sense; but loved even more to give back to her community. She was the biggest cheerleader to all her grandchildren and her beloved Chiefs and Royals. Carol's spunky personality will be missed by all, and our memories made will be cherished forever.

Services will be held on Monday, October 14, at Nativity of Mary Catholic Church, Independence, MO. The Rosary will be prayed at 9:30 a.m. followed by Visitation at 10:00 a.m. and the Funeral Mass at 11:30 a.m. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Ryan Martinez, Diego Garcia, Dante Garcia, Thomas McQuillan, Jessica Madrigal, Christian Balderrama.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com