Carmen Elizabeth Banks Martinez, age 81, passed away on June 16, 2023 in Orem, Utah.  Carmen was born on August 18, 1941 in American Fork, Utah to Wallace Banks and Ruth Irene Smith Banks.  She married Bernave (Bennie) Martinez on October 6, 1961 and were the proud parents of Roland and Rachel.

Carmen graduated from Lehi High School in 1959 and graduated from BYU in Elementary Education in 1969 to teach in Rich County School.  She left teaching to start raising her family of 2 and to foster 2 children.

Shortly after the death of her father, Carmen moved her sister Ellen, who is autistic and blind, into her home to care for her for 44 years.

Carmen loved arts, specializing in quilt making and teaching others quilting skills.  She organized the New Friends Quilt Circle which has been meeting weekly for 34 years making and donating quilts to organizations such as NICU, Domestic violence centers, fire stations, hospitals etc.  Along with quilting, Carmen loves crocheting, making 100's of afghans for others, music and old movies.  It would be safe to say that over 100 people have received a beautiful quilt that was made by her hands. She loved to look at fabric and imagine what it could become.

She had a passionate love for her LDS faith and strongly believed in promptings which she carefully followed as they guided her in decisions for her life.

Carmen's granddaughter describes her as a person with a huge heart.  She is a woman of service.  She was always making things for others and giving to everyone around her. Her grandchildren know they are loved with her whole heart and she taught them service.  She gave her grandchildren everything and they know she will always be watching over them.

Carmen was preceded in death by her sweet husband Bennie and her daughter Rachel.  She is survived by her sister Ellen Banks, her brother Anthony Banks/Connie Banks, son Roland/Joanna Martinez and grandchildren Sofia Vakata/Moses, Coleman, and Joaquin.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to Wing Mortuary, the amazing staff of Orem Rehab and Tender Care Hospice for the love shown and prayers given on her behalf.  Your kindness is very much appreciated.