Jose "Jody" Marquez

Jose "Jody" Marquez, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother, passed away on July 17, 2024, in Tucson, Arizona. Born on August 3, 1947, in Tucumcari, New Mexico, Jody was the epitome of selflessness and courage throughout his life.

Jody's journey was marked by moments of extraordinary bravery. In 1994, after a drunk driver caused a devastating accident involving multiple vehicles, he fearlessly rescued a young boy from a burning car despite sustaining severe burns himself. This act of heroism was not the first - Jody had previously attempted to save another individual from a fire. He received well-deserved recognition for his bravery but remained humble in the face of admiration.

During the Vietnam War, Jody served in the United States Marine Corps, a period he considered one of his proudest accomplishments. After graduating from Pueblo High School in Tucson, AZ, he pursued a career as a dedicated cable technician for 35 years with Qwest while always embodying the values of integrity and kindness. He was instrumental in the building of the Vietnam Veteran Memorial that was placed in downtown Tucson in 1984. 

Known for his immense heart and caring nature, Jody was constantly willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Apart from being a master at assembling toys for his grandchildren and enjoying poker games with friends and family, he found solace in music and treasured moments shared with his loving family.

Jody is survived by his beloved wife Pauline Olivia Marquez; children Jody Marquez, Vanessa Lopez, Veronica Marquez, Patricia Romero (Antonio), and Bernadette Taylor; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings Tony (Josephine) Marquez, Eva Otero, Sylvia Varelas, Robert Marquez (Adela), and Jane Aguilar (George). He was preceded in death by his parents Merenciano Marquez and Maria Antonia Aragon, along with siblings Horacio Marquez, Luisa Sanchez, and Frank Marquez.

Services to honor and celebrate Jody's life will be held on July 29 at Martinez Funeral Chapels, 2580 S. 6th Avenue in Tucson for visitation from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with a prayer service at 10:00 a.m. The graveside service will take place at Holy Hope Cemetery at noon.

Jose "Jody" Marquez will be remembered fondly for his unwavering spirit of altruism and his dedication to serving others. May his legacy continue to inspire kindness and bravery in all who knew him.