She is survived by one brother; Johnny Bowker, one daughter; Lottie Hufford, seven grandchildren; Debbie Robinson (Jayme Robinson), Donella Edwards (Scott Edwards), Judy Ulrich, Mary Tierney, Billy Martin, Michael Martin and Vanessa Moody, along with numerous great grandchildren and many great, great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends; all whom will miss her dearly. Irene's family and friends meant everything to her as did she to them.
During her life and even up through her middle to late 80 years of age, Irene loved hunting, fishing, gardening, painting, attending church, and going to the Senior Center in Canton, OK then in Harmony, NC. She was most proud of numerous articles & photos in the Canton Times newspaper highlighting her artwork as well as the big game she hunted and caught, as well as articles she had written about her life. Irene touched the lives of everyone she met. She was a special soul that people were drawn to. Her smile would light the room. She was always smiling, whether in a room full of people or if just with one person. Irene loved being in the middle of all the activity and didn't want to miss a moment of anything.
Our family would like to extend a very special thank you to Sue & Dewayne Campbell who was a very special part of Irene's life; so much that Irene considered them her "adopted" granddaughter & grandson. We can't express our gratitude enough to them and how much they have been a blessing to us. We extend a special thank you to Kathy Anderson for being such a caring, special friend to Irene when she needed it. Thank you to the wonderful, caring staff at the Gordon Hospice House, and the nurses and CNAs with home Hospice for taking such good care of her during the short time she was in their care.
A private viewing ceremony was held on February 24, 2014, for close family and friends in Harmony, NC. Irene will be lain to rest next to her daughter, Lora Martin, in Canton, OK.
There will be a viewing on Thursday, February 27, 2014, from 10:00 until 12:00 at Haigler Pierce Funeral Home in Canton. A dinner will then be held at the Longdale Gym in Longdale. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, February 27, 2014 at Longdale Community Church with Pastor Ray Schoonmaker officiating. Burial will follow at the Canton Cemetery. Condolences may be made online at www.haiglerpierce.com.