WILMINGTON — Amanda B. Martinez, affectionately known as Bela, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2024.
She is survived by her four loving children, Alex Martinez (Lisa), Connie Kline (Ken), Debbie Trafton (Darren), Amanda Johnson (Ian) and her seven grandchildren that gave her much pride, Gabby and Gage Martinez, Jake, Mitch and Logan Trafton, and Zachary and Cameron Johnson. She also leaves behind her Argentinian nieces and nephew, Andrea, Paola, Corina and Alejandrito, and admiring friends.
Bela is preceded by her true love, Enrique “Quique” Martinez, mother Haydee Orezzoli, and brother Alejandro Orezzoli.
Born and raised in Argentina, Amanda immigrated to New York City with her Quique to pursue the American dream. She supported her husband’s import-export business and other entrepreneurships throughout their 56 years of marriage while raising her four children. Amanda loved to travel with Quique back to Argentina as often as possible, as well as around the world. She taught their children to embrace the arts and culture through the theater, ballet, museums, great food, and even camping.
When she became a grandmother, her new life as Bela began as did her zest for remaining active chasing them around to sporting events, vacations on the beach and graduations. Bela will best be remembered for her incredible strength, devotion to family, and unassuming quick wit.
A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, June 25, 12 pm, at St. Therese Catholic Church on Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice.
