Carmen M Cortez

Maria Carmen Martinez Paradise-Cortez, peacefully passed in her sleep on January 18, 2018 in Ridgecrest, California, following a bountiful 100 years of life.

Carmen was born on December 15, 1917 in Edinburg, Texas to Margarito and Josefa Martinez, and was the last surviving of 8 children. Growing up in Edinburg she was a housekeeper for others and enjoyed quilting and embroidery. She eventually relocated to Ridgecrest to be near her family.

Carmen was preceded in death by a son Barney Paradise, daughter Martha Paradise Puente, and daughter-in-law Maria Paradise

Carmen leaves behind numerous loving family members including: 2 sons David (Merlane) Paradise and Bill Paradise, both of Ridgecrest, California. And 2 daughters: Mary Paradise-Meller of Apache Junction, Arizona, and Maria Clark from Ridgecrest, California.

Carmen's legacy totaled: 7 children, 21 grandchildren, 58 great grandchildren, 41 great-great grandchildren, and 5 great-great-great grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held on January 26, 2018 at 10 am at Holland and Lyon Mortuary, 216 S Norma St, Ridgecrest, CA 93555.