Ernest Edward Martinez

In front of his Grandma Sophie's home with his sister and brother

My husband is half Mexican. No one believes me because he does not look Mexican (except when he tans). His father was Ernest Martinez but his parents got a divorce when he was 2 and was eventually adopted by his dad, Randy Talbot, many years later. Paul did not have a relationship with Ernie for many years (about 15). He contacted him the year we were engaged because he was working in California but nothing came of it. After 5 years ago, Ernie called us up and wanted to come visit us. It was slow going but Paul and Ernie ended up having a good relationship over these past 5 years. Ernie suddenly passed away on March 17th. It was a surprise to all since he was in good health and relatively young (68). This sudden passing taught me never to take life for granted and to not have regrets. Our last conversation with Ernie was about Kailene's baptism. We wanted him to come but because of past feelings from other members of family, we felt it might not be appropriate, yet. So we let him know he was welcomed and we hoped one day that we could all be in the same room together. He understood and apologized for his past mistakes saying he was "knucklehead" but what gives him hope is when he reads in Alma about Alma the younger. He said if Alma can change, so can he.
Now we have just memories, few yet they are important and I am filled with gratitude that we had a relationship with him and that forgiveness was present.

We flew down and watched the BYU game with some dear friends. We spent the night with Sharon, Ernie's wife. It was nice to talk to her about him and even have some unanswered questions addressed. The funeral was nice. Paul spoke and pretty much gave the basics to our religion since the majority of the audience were not members (Ernie was the only member). He did a fantastic job. He also dedicated the grave which was beautiful. I am grateful for the knowledge of the plan of salvation, the atonement, and the resurrection. Life will go on after this life and we will see our loved ones again. Christ overcame death because of the resurrection. I am grateful for my testimony of the resurrection.

Picture taken at the stop light


We had some down time before our flight so we went to the LA temple. Wished we had more time to go through a session but instead we just ate dinner in the temple (Paul's favorite date). That temple is prime location. It is magnificient as you drive to it. The Visitor Center is really wonderful too.