Mass for Dona Martha Saldivar Sulaiman

The Panteon Frances in Mexico City was packed with the Family of Dona Martha Saldivar Sulaiman, boxers and a multitude of people from all walks of Boxing and life, who was so very proud to be counted as her friends and the friends of the late Great Don Jose Sulaiman.

As usual during the Mass, it was the women who best knew the words of the goodbye and God speed ceremony, while many of the men bowed their heads in respect, amidst the sweet fragrance of a sea of mostly white flowers, wreaths and garlands, which continue to be brought in, hour after hour. It’s humbling to see.

As her youngest Son Mauricio, who is the President of the World Boxing Council has said: ‘’So many boxers called her Mama, as she took them under her wing, whether it was Mike Tyson, Julio Cesar Chavez or an amateur humble kid.’’

Her home was open to them day or night. Her doors and her heart were forever open to them. It defined her as an exceptional human being. A person who will be remembered and loved long after her passing and forever, because it’s the memories we leave which preserve us as strong. We are all born and we all die. It’s what we do in between, which distinguishes as people of calibre and worth to cherish.

After it had finished many who had known her for decades, related her kindness, generous spirit and her wonderful gift of friendship.

During his life, Don Jose travelled the Globe time and again due to his work, and it was Dona Martha who ran the home and played a central role in bringing up their six children, who so loved her as a fantastic Mum, but also as a friend, guide and companion. She was their and our shining example.

Even when at home, Don Jose was often fielding telephone calls from around the Globe day and night. It was his beloved Wife, who would make him a salad or a snack at 3am in the morning to sustain, nourish, reinforce and bolster him.

Christiane Manzur, WBC Cares MX Chairperson, said: ‘’Yes. She was a great and a beautiful woman. She leaves a big hole in our hearts.  We will forever remember her as the Queen of the Family.’’

Many family friends who had known Dona Martha for many years, lovingly recalled her gentleness and kindness.  She was a quiet, yet demonstrative person whose actions matched her words. She walked her talk. In recognition of this, many tears have been shed, but there have also been many smiles. As the saying goes; ‘’Don’t cry because it’s over…rather, smile because it happened.’’

This is the end of an era, but the legacy that Doña Martha and Don Jose have left us, has built a strong present and a bright future. Ensuing chapters in the ongoing story of The Green and Gold.

At one service at the Old Basilica De Guadalupe giving thanks for Don Jose’s life, one of his four Sons Hector described him as more than a man. The same goes for Dona Martha. She was more than a woman. The mother of two daughters and four sons and Grandma to fourteen Grandchildren. The Matriach of the entire World Boxing Council family.

Typically, she wouldn`t have wanted any fuss. But this tribute to a fantastic Lady is so fitting. As we entered the Panteon building, one of her Granddaughters was fast asleep on a sofa. She had been part of the all- night vigil.

Just as Dona Martha had always been there for her, she is now here for Her. That says it all. That’s what it’s truly all about.