Willie Irene Ivey

Irene was born May 7, 1926 at the family home in the Live Oak community. She was the second child of Wilhelm “Bill” and Ella Witzscher Menzdorf. Irene was also a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran, Pottsville being baptized, confirmed, and an active member until her death. During her life she served as Sunday school teacher, vacation bible school teacher, Trinity cemetery board member, Pottsville School P.T.A. officer. She attended various community schools within the county and graduated from Indian Gap High School in 1943. After graduation she went to work in Brownwood were she meet her husband, James. They were married December 7, 1945 at Camp Bowie, Brownwood, Texas. After James returned home from overseas duty and retired from the army (1959) him, Irene, and James William moved home to their present day farm in the Springdale community near Shive. It was there that they established their family roots and a life time of memories. The Ivey’s were very involved in the Pottsville community, school and local 4-H club and being a part of Williams’ many activities. During this time making numerous lifelong friends because of their involvement. After James William graduated and attended college with an army career to follow, Irene decided to take care of some toddlers and babies of the community. Even in the last days of her life she always said these kids would always be her kids and no one could take those wonderful memories from her. She had numerous years taking care of “her kids” continuing to be there for them even into adulthood.

Orphaned animals was another passion in her life. Anyone who had a baby goat, lamb, or calf that needed a home knew they would have a good on at Irene’s back porch and yard. Irene seemed to have a box of little chicks, turkeys, guineas, or some other type of foul at any time of the year in her living room. You didn’t ever go to her house that you didn’t leave without a dozen eggs. As a matter of fact you never took her anything that she didn’t return with a favor, pan of hot rolls, and jar of jelly, cookies, or some other treat. Another treat Irene like to share was to tell old stories from what she called “the good ole days”. You were cheated if you never got to share a home remedy or an old story.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, one adopted son Rodney Earl, and one brother, Melvin Menzdorf.

She is survived by her son, James William and wife Sandy of Pottsville, one brother Moritz and wife Dorothy of Dallas, and a God daughter, Aime Jo Somerfeld Lillard of College Station. Also surviving her are one step grandchildren, and four step great grandchildren, five great-great. Along with these survivors are many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Irene was loved by many, will be missed by many, but is now celebrating life with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Interment will be at the Trinity Lutheran Cemetery F.M. 218 West Pottsville, Tx.