Irene Wheeler

IRENE BERGERON THIBODEAUX WHEELER – Lake Charles, LA – Irene Wheeler, 92, passed away Tuesday evening, August 31, 2010. Irene was born to Lastie and Elena Bellard Bergeron in the Church Point, Louisiana, area on October 1, 1917.

She is pre-deceased by her parents; one brother, Wilson Bergeron; two sisters, Felmay McMurtry and Eldine Dupuis; son, Robert Thibodeaux; daughter, Mary Judy Feagin; and husband, C. R. Wheeler, Sr. Irene leaves behind a daughter, Suzanne LeBoeuf of Houston, Texas; the father of her children, Easton Thibodeaux; son-in-law W. J. Feagin, Sr., and daughter-in-law Violet F. Thibodeaux. Irene is also mourned by 16 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, 7 great-great grandchildren and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews.

Irene’s passion was sharing her strong Christian faith. She had a deep love for her family and friends and continuously lifted them up to the Lord. As a member of the Gideons, she carried Bibles and would give them to whomever she had the opportunity to witness for the Lord. During her later years she read the Bible through at least thirty five times.

Irene lived in the Westlake area for 60 years. She had a boundless energy and was always willing to accommodate the needs of others. Her life was a true testament to “loving thy neighbor as thyself.”

In celebration of her life, a Rosary will be said on Saturday, September 4, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at Hixson’s Funeral Home, Sampson Street in Westlake, with a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her name to The Gideons International, 189 Williamsburg St. Lake Charles, LA 70605, (337) 437-3073, www.gideons.org. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonfuneralhomes.com