Ever since 1955, outstanding women in the Sacramento area Catholic women’s groups have been honored for their service to their church communities. The parishes are each asked to select the woman in their parish who has gone beyond what was expected of her with her activities in their women’s group.

Judie Martinez, who has been a member of the Our Lady of Grace (OLG) Parish for over twenty years, was selected this year. She has always been involved in the church ministries and her dedication to her parish and the council has gone far beyond what is expected.

“I am humbled to be added to the list of amazing ladies prior to me,” said Judie, “who have been pillars in Our Lady of Grace Church community.”

Every year, Judie has volunteered for the OLG Vacation Bible School. She worked for many hours as the resident artist and set up scenery and theme related props for the youth to enjoy as they attended bible school. She has participated in the Eucharistic Ministry for over 11 years. She serves as the parish ambassador for Immaculate Heart Radio. She has served in various positions, as the treasurer, secretary, and president of the Our Lady of Grace Women’s Council. Judie is also one of the originators of the hugely successful women’s annual luncheon.

During her years of service she brought the women’s council to a new level which resulted in the organization being able to provide much needed funds to the parish. Women in the parish have found a new interest in serving and participating in many new activities, which have served not only as fundraisers, but as friend raisers. By helping to grow membership in the women’s council the parish members have become more interconnected.

Over many years, her service has included involvement in the West Sacramento community activities, such as Cub Scouts, where she was a Den Mother, a coach for the girls softball team, and a PTA Board Member.

Last weekend, Judie was honored at a luncheon which was held at the Dante Club in Sacramento. She was presented with a certificate acknowledging her outstanding service. West Sacramento should be very proud to have such an outstanding example of someone serving their community beyond what is expected of them.

Judie is married to Fidel Martinez, who served as the first Vice Mayor when the City of West Sacramento was incorporated in 1987, and subsequently served as Mayor for two years for 2 years. He has practiced law in West Sacramento since he graduated from McGeorge School of Law in 1972 and continues to do so. Judie and Fidel have been married since they both graduated from James Marshall High in 1961. They have four children, eight grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Judie is currently serving as the Church Commission Chair on the Sacramento Deanery Board as well as the Family Concerns Chair for the Sacramento Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Board (SDCCW) which oversees the women in the entire Catholic Diocese of Sacramento.

Judie has had a professional career as an interior designer and owned a business for 30 years, Abbey House Interiors. It was located in West Sacramento and the last 15 years in Davis California. She retired three years ago. She is using her creative skills to work on the centerpiece floral arrangements for the 83rd Annual SDCCW Convention on April 3rd and 4th at Christ the King Retreat Center. She will act as a hostess for the event, and will greet the keynote and guest speakers, Cristina Mendonza from Channel 10, and Marie Leatherby, Director of Sacramento Life Center, and attendees.