Irma Herrera

Irma Herrera’s love story started in Houston, Texas on December 16, 1946, when she was born to Concepcion (Concha) and Eustaquio (E.C. or Taquio) Martinez. She was raised alongside her older sister, Annie, in the little green house built by her dad. As the house grew, so did the family to welcome Ricky, Cynthia and Lisa. This house was filled with joy and still holds memories of family gatherings and deep fits of laughter. In seventh grade, a “kid” named Henry hit her with a wad of paper, and little Irma was the one who got in trouble when she tried to retaliate. That silly yet strikingly handsome and smart boy eventually won over her heart, and she always remembered dancing to Moon River with him at the Jefferson Davis High School prom. Henry was soon drafted to Vietnam, and their love grew even stronger. During a brief leave from Vietnam, they made arrangements to meet in Hawaii (with her aunt as the chaperone, of course), and they married in a little chapel on the military base in February of 1967. Henry was the one with the magnetic personality, and although she was the quiet one, she was the strength, the core, and the foundation. Irma supported and loved him with all of her heart, and she followed him through his career in New York, NY, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Dallas, Texas.

Her ability to love unconditionally and wholeheartedly was felt to the core by her children, Anna, Chris, and Jenny. Like little ducklings, they felt safe, secure, and loved. In fact, their only trauma stories were the times they were left with babysitters or starting pre-school because they hated to leave her side. Irma found joy in visiting her family, spending time with her dearest friends, traveling, attending church, and working for the DeSoto ISD child nutrition department. Henry suddenly died in 1998, and her heart was shattered. The years that followed were filled with sadness as she lost both of her parents, her in-laws, and her older sister. As one who only knew to love, she became absolutely devoted to her growing family as each new grandchild entered the world. She had a very distinct and special relationship with each grandchild, and her heart once again overflowed with endless love.

When her little body could not fight the cancer any longer, you’d think her love story was about to end. On the contrary, she was wrapped in love from friends far and near until her final days. It was hard saying good-bye, but she always whispered, “I love you more,” although we all knew that was impossible. She had so much love to give, and her love multiplied and touched us all.

This is just one version since we each have our own personal love stories. Today, we grieve deeply, unable to comprehend a place where we don’t have our devoted friend, cousin, tia, sister (in-law), mom or grandma. But, her love story does not end because we are left with incredible memories and warmth, and for that, we all share in her happy ever after.

Irma was preceded in death by her high school sweetheart and husband, Henry, of nearly 31 years, Concepcion and Eustaquio Martinez (parents), and Anita and Manuel Martinez (sister/brother-in-law).

Irma is survived by her children: Anita (& Bradley) Biber, Christopher (& Nicole) Herrera, and Jennifer (& Kristopher) Ramirez. Her grandchildren include Steven (& Khalida) Holland, Breanna Biber, Carrigan (& Andrew) Ritter, Travis (& Makaylia) Biber, Noah Herrera, Brooke Biber, Cori (& Jacob) Rivera, Alex Ramirez, Lena Ramirez, and Cruz Ramirez. She was blessed with her great-grandchildren: Audrey Ritter, Emery Ritter, and Henry Holland. She leaves behind extended family and dear friends, and many who considered her a bonus mom or grandma.

A special thank you to Dr. Jennifer Nguyen (family physician), Dr. Virginia Stark-Vance (a warrior of an oncologist), and Dr. Gary Sanders (her beloved chiropractor).

Irma Herrera’s Celebration of Life (BLING is encouraged!)

December 1, 2023

Per Irma’s wishes, she will be cremated and reunited with Henry.

American Heritage Funeral Home

10710 Veterans Memorial Drive

Houston, TX 77038

281-445-0050

10:30-11:00 AM Memorial Service

11:00-12:30 PM Reception

12:45 PM Farewell prayer at the Houston National Cemetery

Although Irma loved flowers, consider donating (physical or financial) in Irma Herrera's name to your local blood bank as a thank you to all of the blood and platelet donors who gave her more life.