Irene was born in Serreta, of Terceira Açores, to Elvira do Coração de Jesus and Eduardo Cota Martins.
She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Ildo Alves Sousa of Hilmar, California; her sons, Eduardo M. Sousa and David J. Sousa; her daughter-in-law Marla Sousa, all of Turlock, California; her brothers Ivo Martins of La Palma, California, and Francisco Martins of Teresópolis, Brasil; her grandson Manuel Edward Sousa, and her granddaughter Alexandra Marie Sousa.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Eduardo Cota Martins and Elvira do Coração de Jesus; her sister Maria Madalena Carvalho; and her brother Manuel Cota Martins.
Irene lived a humble and meaningful life, finding joy in the simple things—especially spending time with her family. She was deeply devoted to her Catholic faith and was a longtime parishioner of Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Hilmar. As the quiet matriarch of her family, Irene carried a deep inner strength and grace. Her presence was steady and loving, offering support and guidance through all of life’s seasons. Nothing gave her greater joy than to have family and friends gathered around the dinner table enjoying a meal and laughing together.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Whitehurst-Norton-Dias Funeral Service, located at 286 West Main Street, Turlock, CA 95380-4814.
A Recitation of the Rosary followed by the Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 20263 American Avenue, Hilmar, California 95324. Committal will follow at North Hilmar Cemetery, 8710 North Tegner Road, Hilmar, CA 95324
