Jessica Rivera Martinez

Jessica Rivera Martinez, 45, of Waco Texas, passed away on January 1, 2026, surrounded by loved ones after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Born on January 10, 1980, in Carrizo Springs, Jessica was the seventh of eight children to Maria Esther Gloria Rivera and Ismael Montoya Rivera. Affectionately known as “Cuchie,” she was cherished for her big heart and unwavering support for those in need.

Jessica’s life was filled with love and laughter, as she was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother to seven amazing children and two beautiful grandchildren. Her home was always filled with music, as she loved to sing along to her favorite songs.

Jessica was preceded in death by her father, Ismael M. Rivera; brother, Ismael Rivera, Jr.; and niece, Sonia Rivera Saucedo.

She is survived by her mother, Maria G. Rivera; sisters, Maria E. Rivera, Olivia Perez, Letty Ramirez, Celia Ulloa, Dora Almendarez, and Alexandra Banda; brothers, Romulo Rivera, Billy Rivera, Ramiro Salas, Jr., and Armando Salas; children, Aracelie Rivera, Jayadrian Rivera, Ashley Rivera, Antonio Medina, Jr., Makayla Rivera, Emily Rivera, and Israel Rivera; grandchildren, Josiah Rivera and Luka Morales; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A viewing will be held on January 15th from 6-8 pm at OakCrest Funeral Home, 4520 Bosque Boulevard, Waco, TX. Her funeral service will take place on January 16th at 11 am at Secret Heart Church, 2621 Bagby Avenue, Waco, TX, followed by burial at Chapel Hill Cemetery Memorial Park, 7671 South Highway I-35, Waco, TX.

Pallbearers will be Danny Rivera, Joseph Rivera, Billy Joe Rivera, Armando Salas, Ramiro Salas, Antonio Medina, Jacob Rivera, and Marcelino Almendarez.

Jessica’s memory will forever be cherished by all who knew her.