Irene Payne

Irene (Regish) Payne was born in Clarksville, Pennsylvania to John and Anna (Zaharsky) Regish. Irene was raised in Pennsylvania with her ten siblings. They were a family that knew what hard work was, and always managed to have what they needed.

When Irene was in her teens, she met a young man by the name of Earl. The two met at her uncle’s Greek restaurant. Earl was so taken by Irene that he returned several years later, after serving his tour of military service overseas, to that same restaurant. Irene’s sister, Mary, took Earl to see Irene, and the two married soon after.

Earl and Irene welcomed four children; Dawn, Debbie, Earl, Jr., and Cindy. They were also blessed with 14 grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren.

Irene received her certification as a hairdresser, and worked for over 15 years in the field.

She enjoyed many things in life, but especially loved watching soap operas, traveling to visit with family, and skiing.

Irene will be remembered as a woman of faith; she was a long-time member of St. Agatha Catholic Church in Portland, Oregon. She was also a breast cancer survivor.

Irene passed away on May 28, 2020, in Portland. A viewing will take place from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, June 12, 2020, and a funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 13, 2020, in Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home. Entombment will be with her beloved Earl, Sr., at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, June 13, 2020, in Lincoln Memorial Park. (Gathering restrictions of up to 25 total guests apply to all services listed above.)

Irene is survived by her children, Dawn, Debbie, Earl, Jr., and Cindy; brothers, Steve (Jean) and Andy; 14 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Anna; and siblings, Joey, Frank, Mike, John, Charles, Mary, Elizabeth, and Ann.

Irene was simple, hardworking, and she loved her family fiercely. She will be missed, and her memory will be forever cherished.