Matiana Rincon Rivera, or "Martha", as she was more commonly known within her community and by friends, passed away Friday, September 15, 2023, only 6 days before her 96th birthday. Martha was born on September 21, 1927 in Karnes City, Tx to Paulina Rodriguez and Cipriano Antonio Rincon. She had 2 older sisters, Modesta Moreno and Maria de la Luz "Lucy" Merritt, and a younger brother, Icidro Benjamin "Benny" Rincon. Her family lived around Texas and Colorado as migrant farm workers and finally settled in Abilene, TX. As a young girl, Martha grew up picking cotton. She later worked in an egg factory with her sister and then a Timex watch factory. Martha met her future husband, Isidro Graciano Altamirano Rivera (or "Chano" as most knew him) in Abilene. He traveled frequently for work, but did not let distance get in the way of their relationship. During their courtship they wrote frequent letters, sharing about their days, movies in the theater, community dances, and family events. They married on June 20, 1953 in Abilene, TX at Saint Francis Catholic Church where they were active members of the congregation and would eventually celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Together they raised three children: John, Rosemary, and Paul. As a wife and mother, Martha, learned to cook delicious meals enjoyed by her family. She made tortillas almost daily and Chano loved her fresh chile, which didn't shy away from heat! She cooked from her heart and her food is something that will be missed, although the memories (and chili) will warm our souls for years. Martha also loved needlework, music, singing, and dancing and was very active with the Sears Park Senior Center. Martha and Chano often performed traditional Mexican dances at community events, they were featured in the newspaper several times, and even performed for the late Texas Governor Ann Richards. Although our hearts are saddened to lose Martha on Sept. 15th, so close to her birthday, we know that she left just in time to dance with her beloved Chano para las celebraciones del 16 de septiembre. Martha was preceded in death by her parents, sisters and brother, and her dear husband, Chano. Martha is survived by her three children: John Arthur Rivera (and wife, Diana Cavazos Rivera), Rosemary Rivera (and husband, Allen Olson), and Paul Daniel Rivera; her three grandchildren: Paulina Marie Caban (and husband, Sharad Kohli), Alisia Rose Caban (and husband, Tim Lewis), and Graciana Rivera Olson; and her three great-grandchildren: Roxi Jane Rivera Olson, Matiana Prem Kohli, and Caridad Vani Kohli; as well as beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family would like to thank the staff at Post Rehab & Care Center, Post, Texas. Caregivers, especially driver, Gloria, and activities director, Amber, provided tender loving care for Mrs. Rivera for nearly ten years. Funeral Services will be held at St. Francis on Tuesday September 26, 2023 at 10 am. Visitation will be held at North's Funeral Home on Monday September 25, 2023 6-8 pm, with a rosary at 7 pm. Online Condolences may be made at www.northsfuneralhome.com