JOHN "JAY" DUDLEY MARTINEZ

John Dudley “Jay” Martinez, 60, was born Sunday, June 21, 1964, to Frank Lee and Shirley Lou (Johnson) Martinez in Thermopolis, Wyoming.

He passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 20, 2024 in Douglas, Wyoming.

Jay grew up in Meeteetse, Wyoming on the Bar TL Ranch where he began working with his father and siblings at a young age. He spent countless hours horseback riding and breaking colts, developing a lifelong passion for ranching. During his school years Jay was active in FFA and played high school football, earning a reputation for causing memorable incidents that were talked about for years. After graduating, Jay attended Northwest Community College in Powell, Wyoming. He spent his early adult years working on various ranches, including cowboying for his father at the Bell Ranch and the Rattlesnake Grazing Association. He later worked for Tye and Doug Moore at the Stone Ranch and the Rochell Ranch on the Red Desert. Jay eventually began a career with Hank Franzen at Powder River Rodeo. Later he organized some of his own rodeo's. He then transitioned to driving truck for Lock Trucking in Wheatland, Wyoming earning numerous awards for his dedication and work ethic. Known for his energy and mischievous sense of humor, Jay was always on the move. A true cowboy at heart he often spoke of his dream to own a ranch. He was a Jokester who kept people on their toes and enjoyed spending time with nieces and nephews and friends, often bringing them honey and nuts while teasingly reminding them to make it last.

Jay is survived by his mother Shirley Martinez of Douglas, sister Penny Martinez of Douglas; brothers Bob (Becky) Martinez of Worland, Wyoming, Rick (Stacy) Martinez of Casper, Wyoming, and Scott (Christy) Martinez of Casper, Wyoming; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.

Jay was preceded in death by his father, Frank; paternal grandparents; and maternal grandparents.

He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, may he finally find peace on that big ranch.

Celebration of life will be Saturday, April 12, 2025 from 12 Noon to 5:00 P.M. in Casper, Wyoming at the Barn by Five Deuces, 7992 Zero Road.

The Gorman Funeral Homes-Converse Chapel of Douglas, Wyoming is in charge of the arrangements.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.gormanfh.com

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