Obituary of Stormy Gertrude Irwin

Stormy Irwin, a trailblazer in women's sports journalism and a beloved figure in Sacramento's athletic community, passed away on May 1, 2025 in Sacramento, California. She was 95 years old.

Stormy was born on September 4, 1929, in Melrose Park, Illinois and came to California and graduated from Grant Union High School in Sacramento. Her life would become a testament to passion, perseverance, and an unwavering dedication to women's athletics- particularly softball.

Stormy began her professional career at Zellerbach Paper Company in Sacramento in 1952, where she worked until her retirement in 1985. But it was her work beyond office walls that left an indelible mark on the world of women's sports. From 1957 to 1978, she served as the managing editor, publisher, and owner of the influential publication. *Women is Softball*. Through this platform, she provided vital coverage of women's fast pitch softball at a time when few others did. Her commitment and excellence were recognized with seven first - place awards from the A.S.A. National Softball Writers and Broadcasters Association for Best Continuation Coverage of softball for a non-daily publication under 50,000 circulation- awards she earned in 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1971, 1972, and 1973.

In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the sport and the community, Stormy was inducted into the Sacramento Softball Association Hall of Fame in 1980. This honor celebrated her 22 years of publishing a dedicated softball periodical, her leadership and participation on numerous championship teams in Sacramento, and her efforts to bring top national teams to the city for exhibition games.

Beyond her editorial achievements, Stormy was an accomplished athlete herself. She partcipated on an astounding thirty first-place Sacramento City Recreation teams across volleyball, basketball, softball, and flag football. Her biography was featured in *Who's Who of American Women* in both 1979-1980 and 1991-1992 editions- a reflection of her national impact. Stormy's influence extended far beyond the field and the printed page. She was known for her monthy "Family and Friends" newletter- a heartlfelt chronicle that kept her loved ones informed. She had a gift for friendship and was known for making a friend wherever she went. Her infectious Irwin laugh and ever-present smile lit up every room she entered. Sweet as pie, yet fiercely independent, Stormy did things her way- with spirit and sincerity.

She found joy in traveling with friends and especially loved houseboat trips to Lake Shasta. A lifelong fan of all things *Peanuts*, she had a special fondness for Snoopy. Her love for Coca-Cola, snack foods, turkey and a lively game of Dominoes or Rummikub were well-known among those close to her.

Stormy is survived by her niece Victoria Jane Irwin; her nephew Jay Irwin; and Jay's children Zac and Annie & Stormy's best friend Gaylene Morton. She was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Mary Irwin and her beloved brothers Chuck, Kent, Roger, Pepper and Thom.

Stormy's legacy is one of passion-for sport, for storytelling, for family and friendship. Her contributions to women's fast pitch softball remain unmatched during an era when few others gave it voice or visibility. Though she was never formally inducted into the National Softball Hall of fame due to categorical limitations, her impact on the sport-and on those who knew her speaks voulumes.

May Stormy's memory bring comfort to all who were touched by her vibrant spirit. 

Graveside services will be held on May 28, 2025, from 11:00-12:00 PM, at Sacramento Memorial Lawn, 6100 Stockton Blvd.