It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Audrey Martinez, age 91, on September 3, 2025, at her home in Ninety Six, South Carolina. Audrey passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family and loved ones, after a courageous battle with cancer that spanned the last three years. Throughout her illness, Audrey's unwavering kindness and grace remained ever-present, and she continued to touch the hearts of those around her until the very end.

Audrey was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 71 years, Halle Cohen Martinez. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion. Audrey's hobbies included sewing, knitting, and crafting, and she poured her heart into every project she undertook. She was a woman of great strength, wisdom, and warmth, with an infectious spirit that made everyone she met feel like family.

Audrey is survived by her three sons: Halle Jr. and his wife, Barbara; Andr'e and his wife, Edith; and Darrel and his wife, Mary. She leaves behind a legacy of love in her seven grandchildren: Melissa Martinez McNeely and her husband, Chris; Andrea Martinez; Jason Martinez; Angelena Martinez McDonald; Halena Leato and her husband, John; Douglas Martinez; and "HC" Martinez III. She is also survived by nine great-grandchildren: Larry "Daniel" Delano III and his wife, Kat; Cameron Delano; Jared Fowler; Kinsey Fowler; Jayden Martinez; Alexandra Delano; Harmony McDonald; Hayden McDonald; Ryan McNeely; and Lindsay McNeely, as well as five great-great-grandchildren: Bentleigh Fowler, Gabriella Delano, Jameson Fowler, Tucker Delano, and Kai Delano. In addition, Audrey held a special place in her heart for Samuel Harter, whom she considered her great grandson, Coley Harter, whom she considered her grandson in law and for Chasity Martinez, whom she also considered a granddaughter. Audrey's family also includes many nieces, nephews, and loved ones.

Audrey and Halle first met in their hometown of Jacksonville, Florida, and were married just a few months later, at the age of 16. Their enduring love story spanned over seven decades, marked by mutual respect, devotion, and shared joy. As a military wife for 25 years, Audrey supported her husband's service with resilience and grace. She was deeply involved in missionary work, including tent ministry, and dedicated much of her life to serving in her church. Throughout their lives, they also dedicated themselves to helping others, working with children's homes for troubled children, including those for deaf children, where they offered guidance, love, support and providing care to those in need. Throughout her career, Audrey worked at various organizations, including IBM and Bob Jones University, where she made lasting connections and friendships. Audrey was known for her ability to make anyone feel welcome, with a gift for storytelling and a rare ability to listen with a compassionate heart. She will be remembered for her selflessness, her infectious laughter, and her deep love for family and friends.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the Hospice and Palliative Care of the Piedmont team and all the family members who provided exceptional care and comfort to Audrey during her final days.

The family will hold a memorial service will be held in Audrey's honor at Ninety Six Church of God, 301 Saluda St., Ninety Six, SC 29666, at 6:00 PM on September 12, 2025.

Audrey's love and legacy will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew her. May she rest in peace.