Esperanza "Lancha" Martinez was born August 28, 1933 in Indio, California to Jose and Consuelo (Gonzales) Juarez. She passed away July 26, 2009 in Bakersfield, California in her home with her family by her side. She was preceded in death by her husband, Porfirio "Neto" Martinez; sons, Ernest and Ruben; son-in-law, Ray Juarez; parents and 3 siblings. She leaves behind her daughters, Elsa Juarez, Sylvia Galaviz and husband Manuel, Eleanor Rocha and husband Armando, Lydia Fimbres and husband Danny; son, Anthony Martinez and wife Lisa; 10 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren; sisters Nani Orona and Martha Martinez; brothers, Eusevio, Jesse, and Gilbert Juarez. To say our mother and grandmother, Esperanza, was a strong woman is an understatement. Words cannot express how much strength and courage she possessed. She fought a battle with breast cancer twice and still managed to maintain her home and work in her garden. Throughout her battle with cancer she still managed to be stunning with her black curly hair beautifully styled. Her battle with cancer ultimately led to her passing where she was greeted with open arms. We are left with her wisdom and strength in our heart until we meet again. We will keep her wisdom and memories in our hearts forever. Visitation will be held Thursday July 30th, from 2-8pm at Hopson-Anspach Family Mortuary, with Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church on Friday July 31st at 10 am, with burial immediately following at Union Cemetery.