Norma Irene Martz

Norma Irene Martz of Jonesboro peacefully passed from this life into her heavenly reward on
December 27, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 5 in Mount
Vernon, Arkansas to Robert and Elizabeth (Brewer) Garland who both preceded her in death.
Irene was married to the love of her life, Eugene Martz, for nearly 42 years until his passing in
1999.
A lifelong resident of Jonesboro, Irene was deeply devoted to Arkansas State University, both
through her service and ongoing support, leaving a lasting legacy within the ASU community.
She retired in 2005 after 48 years of service in administration, where she was known for
providing invaluable historical insights into the university’s policies, particularly those adopted
by the Board of Trustees. Irene was a dedicated patron and fan who supported both academic and
athletic programs, and she was inducted into the university’s Legacy Society in recognition of
her generous contributions. A proud Phi Kappa Phi alumnus, Irene enjoyed attending ASU
football and basketball games, passionately cheering for her alma mater (Class of 1974). Her
Indian name, "Red Wolf" ; was a testament to her deep connection with the university.
A woman committed to a life of service, Irene was an active member and officer of several
professional organizations, including Altrusa International. Highly intelligent, she was also a
proud member of Mensa International. Irene’s dedication to her community was evident in her
generous and caring nature. She lived her life for others, leaving a profound impact on all who
knew her. She served as a board member for the Northeast Arkansas Humane Society and made
generous contributions to the local food bank. Irene was a longtime member of Cornerstone
United Methodist Church.
The arts played a significant role in Irene’s life. She had a deep love for music, especially opera,
and was a talented artist, creating several beautiful pieces that will forever be cherished by her
family. Irene also found great joy in reading and exploring the world through travel. In her later
years, she developed a close bond with her great-great nephew, Tanner Thomas, whom she loved
like a son. She nurtured his love for music and travel, and together they created many treasured
memories.
Irene will be remembered for her generosity, kindness and independent spirit. A woman ahead of
her time, she made the world a better place with her actions and her heart.
In addition to her parents and husband, Irene is preceded in death by two brothers, four sisters, a
bonus daughter, granddaughter Pamela Davis with whom she had a special relationship and
another granddaughter.
She is survived by her nieces, Betty Davis of Trumann and Mary Branham of Jonesboro; great-
niece, Anita Shatley of Jonesboro; her beloved great-great nephew, Tanner Thomas and his
partner, Kenneth Nelson, of Memphis, TN; grandchildren Cheri Davis Pierce, David Davis and
Michael Davis; multiple generations of grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and
countless friends, including her closest friends, Sherry Blevins and Robin Hicks.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Gene and Irene Martz Endowed Scholarship,
ASU Foundation, P.O. Box 1990, State University, AR 72467 or the Northeast Arkansas Humane
Society, 6111 E Highland Dr., Jonesboro, AR 72401.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Emerson
Funeral Home with Reverend Don Martin officiating. A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. prior
to the service. Entombment at Jonesboro Memorial Park Cemetery will follow. Active
pallbearers: Paul Bednar, JW Mason, Leonard McDaniel, Kenneth Nelson, Jimmy Thomas and
Tony Thomas. Honorary pallbearers: Annette Elkins Bednar, Sherry Blevins, Sandra Bramblett,
Erica Krennerich Chudy, Lynita Cooksey, Jeannie Cossey, Susan Hanrahan, Robin Hicks, Peggy
Wright, Bill Pierce and Charles Raspberry.