Mutual of Omaha reverse AE Kathy Martinez has died

Kathleen “Kathy” Martinez, a reverse mortgage industry veteran and account executive who most recently served with Mutual of Omaha Mortgage’s reverse division, died last week in her community in Florida. She was 60 years old.

Martinez’s career in the reverse mortgage industry goes back more than two decades and included time working for former industry leader Financial Freedom.

She transitioned in 2011 to become a national account manager at what later became Liberty Reverse Mortgage, then had a brief tenure at One Reverse Mortgage, the former dedicated reverse arm of what is now Rocket Mortgage.

She returned to Liberty in 2019 but transitioned to Mutual of Omaha in February 2024, where she served as a wholesale account executive. Her obituary discussed her time working in the industry and how it impacted her approach to life.

“Kathy’s 22 years in the reverse mortgage industry were not just about a career; they were about forming lasting bonds and making a difference in the lives of the people she worked with,” the obituary written by her family said. “She approached her work with the same passion and dedication that she devoted to every aspect of her life.”

Mark O’Neil, senior vice president of wholesale at Mutual of Omaha, described Martinez’s impact on the industry and his division in a message to his team upon hearing the news.

“Several of us had the opportunity to get to know Kathy as a co-worker and friend over the past 20 years during her stints at Financial Freedom, MetLife, Liberty and One Reverse, before ultimately joining Mutual,” O’Neil said.

“Those who know Kathy see her as always kind, upbeat and a good friend. I know that Kathy’s clients and coworkers will miss her dearly. Please keep Kathy, her daughters, grandchildren and extended family in your thoughts and prayers with me.”

A memorial service will be held for Martinez in Bradenton, Florida, on May 24. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Venice Area Pregnancy Care Center.

HousingWire’s Reverse Mortgage Daily (RMD) extends condolences to Martinez’s co-workers, friends and family during this time.