Anselma Martinez

Anselma Martinez, 93, of Monmouth, died at 1:20 a.m. Thursday, July 13, 2017 in the Knox County Nursing Home in Knoxville.

She was born June 26, 1924, in Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, Mexico, the daughter of Juan and Victoria (Briones) Ibarra. She married Sabino Martinez in Jalisco. He preceded her in death January 12, 1961.

She is survived by five children, Toni (Karl) Mertz of Galesburg, John (Shirley) Martinez of Oquawka, Rose Miller of Galva, Imelda Allen of Galesburg, and Susie Martinez of Galesburg; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; and two sisters, Juana Artiaga of Monmouth and Maria Leal of El Paso, Texas. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Mary Cox on March 16, 2013; a sister, Lupe Alvarado; and an infant brother.

Anselma has worked since her father died when she was 12 by helping her mother support their small family. Anselma accepted her responsibility, after losing her husband, of putting her young children first and continued working at many places over the years while raising them. Most notably, she worked at Glastex Corporation in Monmouth and a variety of nursing homes, including Helen and Meads, where she was a cook. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Monmouth. Anselma had a green thumb and enjoyed gardening, nature, and being outdoors. She also loved to cook. Her greatest joy was her family and was happiest having them near her. She cared for her disabled daughter, Susie, for 57 years, until just recently. Anselma was a very kind hearted person who was willing to help anyone.

Graveside service will be 3 p.m. Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Monmouth. Deacon Michael Crummer will officiate. There will be no visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors of Galesburg is handling arrangements for the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.