Obituary of Pastor Gilberto Martínez Samano Sr.

Pastor Gilberto Martínez Samano Sr., age 94, passed away on September 8, 2026, leaving behind a lasting legacy of faith, family, and service to God.

He was born on February 18, 1932, in Cosalá, Sinaloa, Mexico, to Erasmo Samano and Marina Martínez Avendaño. He later immigrated to the United States in 1960.

Pastor Samano faithfully served the Lord and the Apostolic Assembly for more than seven decades. He was initiated into the diaconate in 1961 and ordained to the ministry in 1964. Throughout his ministry, he served numerous churches and communities in the United States and Mexico, including 28 congregations over the course of his life.

He was known as a humble man of few words whose actions spoke loudly. He served with a willing heart, loved people deeply, and remained committed to preaching Christ and the message of salvation. He often said, “May all honor be given to God.”

He is survived by his sister, Estela Serratos; his five children, Raquel S. Araujo (Juan), Gilbert Samano Jr. (Carmen), Elías Samano Sr. (Bree), Sem Samano Sr. (Irene), and Xochitl González; as well as nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Pastor Samano will be remembered for his faithfulness to God, love for souls, humble spirit, and enduring Apostolic legacy.