Irene was preceded in death by her husband M.T. Lake; her parents Marth J. Cook and James Porter Hill; her brothers William Hill, Howell Hill, Charlie Hill, and her sisters Beulah Wetchen, Mae Gunderson, Cecile Phelps, Ollie Reimann, Irma Hill, Montene Hill and Martha Christian.
Irene is survived by her sons Michael Terry Lake (Beth) and Stephen Lake, her grandchildren Stefanie Deal (D.J.), Kevin Lake and Patrick Lake (Laura) and her great grandchildren Alleigh Deal and Emily Deal.
Irene Hill Lake, 100, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and grace. Born on the first day of spring, March 20, 1925, in Perry County, Alabama, Irene was the embodiment of renewal, warmth, and quiet resilience.
She was raised in Moundville, Alabama, one of 11 children born to Martha Cook Hill and James Porter Hill. Family was always at the heart of Irene’s life, and she carried those values with her through every chapter.
Irene was married to her beloved husband, M.T. Lake, for 70 years. Their love story was a rare and beautiful one—they knew each other their entire lives and shared a bond that only grew stronger with time.
She retired from DCH Regional Medical Center in 1987 after 17 years of dedicated service. Known for her gentle spirit and steady hands, she was deeply respected by colleagues and patients alike.
Irene was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her greatest joy came from caring for others, nurturing not only her family but also the flowers and gardens she loved so dearly. With a green thumb and a tender heart, she found peace in planting beauty and growing love.
Irene will be remembered for her unwavering love, her grace, and the deep roots she planted in the lives of those who knew her.
A visitation for Irene will be held Monday, April 21, 2025 at10:00 AM to at Memory Chapel Funeral Home, 2200 Skyland Blvd East, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35405. Following the visitation will be a graveside service at 11:00 AM at Memory Hill Gardens, 2200 Skyland Blvd East, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35405.
Serving as pallbearers are Kevin Lake, Patrick Lake, D.J. Deal, Joseph Deal, Garrett Jamorski, David Busby.
Serving as honorary pallbearers are the caregivers and staff of Crimson Village, Aspire Rehab and Heritage Healthcare and Rehab; Manner Nickson, Alice Sanders, Valeria Merriweather, Agape Care Hospice Care Group and Southern Hospice Care Group.
