Sofia Rodriguez Martinez

Sofia Rodriguez Martinez, 70, a fierce advocate for immigrant rights, proud abuela, and culinary artist, passed away on January 26, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona. She crossed many borders in her life—and opened doors for countless others. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, Sofia came to the United States at 18 with nothing but hope and determination. She built a life through hard work, eventually owning Sofia's Kitchen, the beloved Mexican restaurant where everyone was family and no one left hungry. A tireless advocate, Sofia helped thousands of families navigate the immigration system through her volunteer work with the Phoenix Immigrant Rights Coalition. She believed in the promise of America because she lived it—and fought to extend it to others. Sofia's greatest pride was her family: husband Fernando (married 52 years), children Ana, Carlos, and Miguel, 11 grandchildren, and her first great-grandchild born last month. Her recipes, her strength, and her love live on in all of us.