Irene L Pelham

Irene Latine Pelham(Mimi) of Austin, Texas, passed away on Friday, August 14, 2026, at the age of 87. She was born on January 31, 1939, in Taylor, Texas. She grew up in Austin, Texas, and was proud to be an old Austin girl. She was raised with her sister, whom she lost too early, and brother in East Austin before they moved to Riverside Drive. She often spoke of riding the bus and taking a jar of tuna fish her mom had made to Barton Springs. Irene was a proud Travis High Rebal graduate, Class of 1957. She was involved in the home economics program, which she carried with her throughout her life in her home. She also enjoyed sewing and made many of her own clothes and dresses for special occasions. Irene always worked hard. She had fond memories of working as a ward clerk at Breckenridge Hospital, a switchboard operator, and a receptionist at a bank in Houston.

Irene met the love of her life, Gene, on a blind date arranged by their roommates in 1958. Irene and Gene were married on March 25, 1961, in Rivera, Texas. Irene was always proud to be married to Gene for 65 years.

They made their home and started a family in Houston, Texas; for 10 years, Irene and Gene returned to Austin in 1974, where they raised their family. In 1977, together they opened GP Equipment Co. in Austin. During this time and always, Irene did all that it took to help make their family and business thrive. She even worked nights at Texas Instruments. Irene did the bookkeeping for 40 years and never met a stranger who walked through the door at GP Equipment. There she was known by all as Mrs. P.

Irene’s passion and joy were her family. She always did whatever it took to make her family happy. She loved to cook and be in her kitchen in Austin or Rockport. Everyone was welcome at their home, and Irene was happiest when she was doing for those she loved. She had her “Special” dips, dishes, snacks, and sweet tea, which were staples at any gathering and always remembered. She loved all animals and nature, sitting on her back porch in Austin or on her deck in Rockport with Gene. Irene also enjoyed her ‘50s music and had those toes tapping. Irene had a sweet and genuine smile for all that she met.

Irene is survived by her husband of 65 years, Gene Pelham of Austin; daughter and son-in-law, Dara and Rusty Rozell of Austin; and son, Denny Pelham of Frisco, Texas. Also survived by her grandchildren Reece and wife Lindsey Rozell of Kingwood, Texas; Carolyn and husband Matt King of Leander, Texas; Mason Pelham of Houston, Texas; and Garrett Pelham of Frisco, Texas. She is survived by four great-grandchildren: Rylee, Remi, and Ramsey Rozell, and Nolan King. Irene is also survived by many nieces and nephews who were very special to her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Johnnie Fojtik and Ella Ray; her sister, Carolyn Fojtik; and her brother, Johnnie Fojtik Jr.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Cedar Pointe Health and Wellness Center for the care and compassion they showed Irene in her final days. All the nurses and caregivers here went above and beyond to help Irene and her family in the last month. They became our extended family. We also thank Gene, our Dad, for all that he did to help Mom and make her life happy and at home these last years.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Service at Cook-Walden Capital Parks Funeral Home on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 10 am: interment and lunch reception to follow at Cook-Walden Funeral Home.

There will be a visitation with the family on Monday, August 24, 2026, from 5-8 pm at Cook-Walden Capital Parks Funeral Home.

“Now please sit down, kick up your heels, and get a little rest.” From a poem written for Irene’s 60th birthday.