In Loving Memory of Nurys Mercedes Martinez
February 10, 1945 – January 1, 2025
Nurys Mercedes Martinez departed this life on January 1st, 2025, at the age of 79, as a beloved matriarch and the cornerstone of a large and loving family.
She was predeceased by her husband, Fabio Martinez, and her daughter, Esmeralda Martinez, and leaves behind her children, Benito Martinez, Rosa Martinez, Claribel Martinez, and Fabio Martinez. She was a proud grandmother to Jessica, Victor, Katia, Fabio, Clarissa, Komar, Ernesto, and EJ, and a great-grandmother to eight great-grandchildren and counting.
Nurys lived a life full of purpose, joy, and generosity. She was well known for her passion for cooking, which brought people together from near and far. As the owner of Nurys Restaurant, a cherished landmark on Broad Street in Providence, and later as the beloved “fritura lady” from her home, she fed thousands with her authentic and delicious Dominican cuisine. Her food was not just nourishment; it was an experience of love, culture, and community.
Nurys was the embodiment of warmth and happiness. Her radiant smile never faded, even during life’s toughest moments. She embraced a philosophy of living life to its fullest, a sentiment echoed in one of her favorite songs, “Vivir Mi Vida” by Marc Anthony. She loved to dance, celebrate life, and make everyone feel like family, earning her the affectionate nickname “Mami” from all who knew her.
As Marc Anthony sings, “Voy a reír, voy a bailar, vivir mi vida, la la la la,” let us honor Nurys’ memory by embracing her joyful spirit. Live your life to the fullest, spread kindness, and cherish the moments that make life extraordinary, just as she did every single day.
Nurys life celebration and home going would be observed as follows:
Monday January 6, 2025
Visitation:
Bell Funeral Home
571 Broad Street
Providence, RI 02905
9:00am – 12:00pm
Burial Services:
North Burial Ground
5 Branch Avenue
Providence, RI 02904
12:30pm
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.






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