“It’s just like heaven being here with you...” was often belted out of Janie’s lungs when not only serenading her love, Jose, but also her daughters, grandchildren, and family at get-togethers. For Janie, heaven here on Earth was with her loved ones, and she reminded them constantly, not just with words but actions. She made her transition to the Lord on September 4, 2021, in San Antonio, Texas, leaving behind a legacy of love.
Janie Birrueta (Martinez) was born on February 27, 1946, in El Paso. She was the eldest daughter of the late Eleuterio and Rosie Martinez. At the insistence of her mother, they moved to Los Angeles, California. Janie was proud to be a sister and “second Mom” to 13 siblings, late brothers Eddie, Louie, Richard, and Joey, and surviving brothers and sisters, Rosie (her twin), Robert, Delia, Josie, Margie, Manuel, Irene, Gloria, and Mary.
Janie met Jose Birrueta in 1970 and fondly reminisced about their first dance to one of her favorite oldies, Donna. On March 22, 1972, they married and then had three daughters, Jenny (Fernando) Arreola, Annette (Humberto) Rendon, and Martha Birrueta. In 1983, they embarked on an adventure and moved to San Antonio for a chance at a brighter future. With so many siblings, Janie had over 100 nieces and nephews and could still remember birthdays and anniversaries. She missed her large family in California and, even until recently, could rival any teenager with her daily phone calls to send her love and stay caught up on all the family gossip.
As impressive as she was as a mother, Janie truly shined in her role as “Grandma Janie” to Madison, Christopher, Marley, and Alex. She was also blessed with bonus grandchildren—Jacob, who knew her as “Mom,” followed by his brother, Jordan. Janie spoiled them playfully and never hesitated to let them know how much she loved them all. She would spend her last dollar on small gifts for them to show her love and bring a smile to their face. They were truly her pride and joy and kept her going for many years even as she faced health issues later in life.
Janie was indeed a people person, always concerned about others and wanted the best for everyone. She was at her happiest dancing and singing to her oldies songs and could never pass up a chance to serenade anyone with her favorite song, Angel Baby. Janie was devoted to her husband of 49 years, and the only other man who held her heart was Elvis Presley. We’re sure she is now dancing with him and singing duets with the same constant smile she had in life. Janie will truly be missed by her family and friends and will forever be looking over us… our Angel Baby.
Due to restrictions on public gatherings, the services at Trevino Funeral Home – 226 Cupples Road 78237 – will be limited to 100 people in the building at a time.
The family will be receiving friends on Saturday, October 16 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, with a Memorial Rosary to be recited at 12:30 PM.
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