Desirae Paz Martin, known affectionately as "Dezz," was born on August 30, 1996, and passed away tragically on December 19, 2025, due to an act of violence. She was 29 years old.
Dezz is survived by her parents, Tracy “Mama” and Mike “Dad” Beebe, Johnny “Daddy” and Shalene “Stepmother” Martin. She is also survived by her half-sister Brandi Piazza and her husband Joe, her grandmother Rosa Alday, her great-aunt Nellie Herrera, her uncle Ronnie Cobb, her aunt Tammy Rodgers, her aunt/godmother Melinda Florez and her husband Chris, her aunt Sandra Mazzarini and her husband John, her aunt Delia Ibarra and her husband Joe, grandma Carollyn Beebe, aunt Sherry Christensen and her husband Ray, aunt Julie Rowland and her husband Eric, aunt Mary Beebe, aunt Emily Funk and her husband Chris, uncle Mark Beebe and his wife Amy, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Dezz was predeceased by her grandmother Brenda Hoops, her grandfather Robert “Pop Pop” Hickman, and her grandfather Pepe Alday.
Dezz graduated from Copper Hills High School with many awards and honors. She later attended Weber State College, where she earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, with a minor in psychology. She relocated to Las Cruces, New Mexico, to be closer to her father’s relatives, including her grandmother Rosa Alday and her aunt/godmother Melinda.
In Las Cruces, Dezz established a new life but always held a deep connection to her family in Utah. She had a particular fondness for "Alice in Wonderland," especially the character of the Cheshire Cat. Dezz was passionate about singing and acting and was known for her loyalty to friends and her advocacy for others. She loved capturing moments through photography and was always enthusiastic about her next adventure.
Professionally, Dezz served as a 911 operator in Las Cruces for the last few years until recently, when she decided to focus on her passion for theater. She enjoyed collaborating with the theater community and also worked as a substitute teacher, where she developed a great affection for the students. At the time of her passing, Dezz was also, a caregiver to an elderly woman, whom she cherished spending time with and assisting.
Dezz demonstrated immense bravery during her final moments, standing up for herself courageously. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A viewing will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Cannon Mortuary, located at 2460 East Bengal Blvd., Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121.
Cannon Mortuary
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