Grace Avila Martinez

Grace Avila Martinez was called home peacefully at the age of 98, on July 1, 2014, surrounded by her family. Born February 7, 1916 in Zacatecas, Mexico to Genaro and Romula Avila and raised with her seven siblings in the beautiful valley of Valparaiso. Grace is predeceased by her husband, Felix Martinez, Sr. and her son Felix Martinez, Jr. and survived by her eight children, Petra (Raul), Margaret (Alfonso), Lucio, Mary (Rodolfo), Frank, Richard, Charlie (Maria) and Jesse; her sister Angie Camacho (Jesus) and brother Robert Avila. She was blessed with 27 grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren, and 16 great-great-grand-children. Grace is lovingly remembered as a faithful Guadalupana, having been a strong hardworking wife and mother who loved her children unconditionally. She took pride in having worked a 3 different canneries while raising her family in Sacramento. Grace was a wonderful cook and was especially proud of winning a 1st' place trophy at a Chiles Rellenos Contest. She also enjoyed going to casinos with her family at every opportunity. Win or lose she always enjoyed the bus trips with friends and family. As the matriarch of the Avila family she will be missed very much and will always be held dear in our hearts. A special thank you to the Pioneer House staff for tending to our mother's every need. Services were held at All Hallows Catholic Church located at 5500 13th Ave. on July 8. Viewing/Rosary from 10:30-11:00 a.m. followed by Mass at 11:00. Interment took place at St. Mary's cemetery at 21st Ave. and 65th St. Expressway.