Blanca L. Martinez was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico on Sept. 24, 1933. She was one of ten siblings. Blanca came to New York in 1950. She married and gave birth to her daughter Ruthie in 1954 and then her son Gabriel in 1957.

She became a single mother and worked tirelessly in order to provide for her children. Blanca then found an interest in local politics and was elected District Leader of the Bronx 77th Assembly District. She was the first Puerto Rican woman to hold a seat in public office in New York City.

Blanca then met the love of her life, Edward; they married and have enjoyed 46 years of wedded bliss. They have a combined total of 3 daughters, 2 sons, 2 granddaughters, 6 grandsons, 1 great-granddaughter and one great-grandson.

Blanca enjoyed crocheting, cooking, dancing and those nickel slot machines in the casino! Overall, she was very affable, giving and family oriented and her zest for life was unabating.