Irene Botello Hernandez of Brownsville, TX entered into eternal rest February 11, 2025, peacefully in her home. She was born on March 19, 1953.
She is preceded in death by her parents Dionicio Botello and Ninfa Botello.
Left to cherish her memory is her spouse: Jaime Castañeda; her children: Jaime Castañeda, Jorge Castañeda, Javier Castañeda, Cassandra Vinson, Vanessa Lamas, Don Castañeda, Crystal Olivarez, and 12 grandchildren.
Beloved mom, wife and grandmother, devoted Christian, life-long learner, intelligent, witty, beautiful, strong, wanderlust and dedicated teacher are all words to describe the essence of Irene Hernandez. She loved being an educator and left an impact on the lives of the students she taught. She instilled in her children the beauty and importance of an education. She was a devoted wife, selfless mother and above all she was a follower of Christ. She has left a beautiful legacy behind, and we will miss her dearly. We love you Mom. Until we see you again.
Thank you, Mom, for all your lessons, guidance and wisdom you taught and passed down to us. You were relentless in your life pursuit of bettering people’s lives and teaching and nurturing was truly your gift. We see that to this day in those that came across you and that were impacted by you. You taught from the bottom of your heart because that’s the only way you knew how to do things. So, I speak for many, when I say I’m very thankful for everything that you were and you will be cherished for indefinite time.
Irene sought adventure and travelled all over the world from Australia to Europe and back again. She swam in the Great Barrier Reef and strolled the streets of London, and shared fond memories of her time in Ireland and France. She had a zest for life and was truly a leader not only in her career but in all aspects of her personal life. She taught us how to be grateful, positive and determined. She inspired those around her to embrace life with open arms and a sense of wonder. We will remember her for her bravery, resilience, and kindness. It’s time to rest now, Mom. You fought until the end, and you won your fight. May you enjoy the infinite beauty of Heaven with our Lord and Savior.
Visitation is scheduled for Friday, February 14th from 1:00-8:00 pm with recitation of the Holy Rosary and chapel service at 6:00 p.m., at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home. Services conclude at the end of the evening. A mass in honor of Irene Hernandez will be held on February 15th at 6:00 pm at St. Joseph Catholic Church.
Services are under the guidance of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, Crematory & Flower Shop. 657 Springmart Blvd., Brownsville, Texas. (956) 350-8485.
To send flowers or a plant to the family in the memory of Mrs. Irene Botello Hernandez, please visit Shalom Sympathy Florals at Sunset Memorial, place your order online at https://shalomflorals.com/shop or call (956) 572-3872.