Irene E. Aguirre, born on May 28, 1937, in Texas, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2025, at the age of 88. A devoted resident of Lemoore, California, Irene lived a life rooted in love, service, and dedication to her family and community.
Irene is survived by her beloved husband of 70 years, Rodolfo A. Aguirre, with whom she built a beautiful life since their marriage in 1956. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Frances Aguirre, Roberto Aguirre, Reynaldo Aguirre, Edward Aguirre, and Rodolfo Antonio Aguirre; 9 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; 4 great great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Elena Lopez, Antonio Escamilla, SanJuanita Garcia, Alfredo Escamilla, Cedilla Escamilla, Diana Escamilla, and Estela Escamilla.
She was preceded in death by her daughter, Rita Irene Aguirre; her parents, Blas Escamilla and Francisca Pruneda; and her siblings Elosia Gonzalez, Pole Castro, Esther Ibal, Betty Escamilla Jones, Ruben Escamilla, Raquel Escamilla Young, and Severa Escamilla.
Irene will be remembered for her generous heart, her creativity, and her tireless devotion to nurturing others. A gifted gardener with a true green thumb, she could often be found tending lovingly to her plants—her peaceful haven. She enjoyed sewing and created remarkably lifelike dolls and beautifully crafted purses, sharing her talent with those around her.
Her passion for caring for children was one of the defining joys of her life. Irene founded the child care program “Jardin de Niños” in Orosi, and later, upon moving to Dinuba, she and her husband opened “Enchanted Gardens” to continue this meaningful work. Over the years, she had the unique blessing of caring for the children of those she once nurtured in their own childhoods. She also served as the President of the Daycare Providers Association for many years, advocating for providers and families alike.
Driven, dedicated, and determined, Irene achieved her Bachelor’s Degree alongside one of her daughters—an accomplishment that brought her great pride. She also taught English as a Second Language to migrant workers for many years, empowering others with the tools to grow, connect, and thrive. Irene gave back to her community out of a deep belief that everyone deserved the opportunity to build a better future for themselves and their families.
She traveled throughout the United States with joy and curiosity, treasuring every stop along the way.
A visitation will be held at Dopkins Funeral Chapel, 189 South J Street, Dinuba, CA 93618, on December 12, 2025, beginning at 10:00 a.m. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place that same day at Smith Mountain Cemetery, 42088 Rd 100, Dinuba, CA 93618.
Irene’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and generosity. Her legacy will continue to bloom in the many lives she touched.
