HMHFF

In Honor of

Rodney Lee Martinez

Rodney Lee Martinez

President of the Del Rio Amistad Lions • Senior Executive of Sales & Radio Personality.

August 29, 1967 – January 8, 2025

Rodney Lee Martinez was more than a voice on the airwaves—he was a voice for the community.

Born and raised in Del Rio, Texas, and deeply connected to Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila, Mexico, Rodney devoted his life to music, service, and bringing people together.


Inspired by our father, Rodney grew up immersed in the family’s radio business. Alongside our family, he brought La Música Tejana to life, hosting events that celebrated culture while using his platform to serve those in need. His natural charisma and compassion made him a beloved figure on both sides of the border.

A Life of Service

Rodney’s dedication to humanitarian work began in 1997

after the premature birth of his twins, when Lions Clubs International touched his life. He became a passionate member, leading projects that provided mobility carts, vision care, food assistance, and disaster relief.

In 2015, when a tornado devastated Ciudad Acuña, Rodney and his best friend, Hervey Sifuentes Herrera, led 15 consecutive days of relief efforts, ensuring families had shelter, food, and water.

Rodney made history

as the first person to serve as President of four Lions Clubs in our region:

 

  • Del Rio Amistad Lions Club

  • Brackettville–Del Rio Lions Club

  • San Felipe Amistad Lions Club

  • Del Rio Host Lions Club

His exceptional service earned him numerous awards, including:

 

  • The Melvin Jones Fellowship for humanitarian service

  • Certificate of Dedicated Service as Sergeant-at-Arms (District 2-A2)

  • President’s Appreciation Award and Director’s Award for leadership excellence

Continuing a Family Legacy

After our father’s passing in 2015

Rodney stepped up to lead the family’s radio and music business, keeping our father’s vision alive while expanding its community impact.

In 2024, Rodney and I began building The Homero Martinez Heart Failure Foundation—a mission rooted in our shared desire to support patients and caregivers in underserved communities. Though Rodney passed before its official launch, his heart is present in every part of our work.

 

Forever in Our Hearts

Rodney was more than my brother

—he was a beacon of hope, a servant leader, and a man whose life made a difference. His love for people, his unwavering commitment to service, and his belief in the power of community will guide this foundation for generations to come.

It is my greatest honor to carry his legacy forward.

— Donna Lynn Martinez, BSN, RN Founder & President, The Homero Martinez Heart Failure Foundation