She was born on March 29, 1931 in Roswell, South Dakota to Frank and Emma Smith. Irene is preceded in death by both parents, her seven siblings and son-in-law Gary Nelson.
Irene is survived by her faithful husband of 66 years, Clifton Harris; three children, Cathy Nelson, Lois (Gregg) Eckert and Todd (Kim) Harris; eight grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.