Irene Dyer

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Irene Dyer Irene (Russell) Dyer was born on September 4, 1930, in Clarendon, Jamaica, to Florence Minneth Russell and Wycliffe Dunkley. She lived a life defined by love, faithfulness, resilience, and generosity. She was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Irene was married to Zadock Dyer and was widowed at the age of 45. She lovingly embraced her role as a caring stepmother to Roderick (deceased), Osbourne, and Tass. They also raised eight biological children: four sons - Nason (deceased), Sebert, Cleveland, and Newton - and four daughters - Lornette Browne, Rachel Brown, Marian Dyer, and Gloria Grant. She was a skilled seamstress and was known throughout her community as Sanguinetti’s “alteration queen.” She lovingly sewed clothing for her children in their early years and took great pride in ensuring that her family was well cared for. Irene embodied the virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman. She rose early each morning to prepare meals for her children so they went to school nourished and ready to learn. She was deeply committed to raising her children in the church, instilling in them strong values and faith in God. Though life brought its share of challenges, Irene remained steadfast in her faith. During especially difficult times, she found strength in the unwavering support of Osbourne, Uncle Steve, Aunt Lorna, and her sister, Aunt Gwen. Through every trial, she taught her children the enduring power of love, unity, and family support - lessons that created lifelong, unbreakable bonds. In October 1986, Irene immigrated to the United States to assist with raising her grandchildren, first settling in New York with, Sebert, then relocating to Miami with Rachel in November 1987. There, she became a cherished member of her church community, where she was affectionately known as “Grandma.” She took great joy in attending church, always dressed elegantly with coordinated hats, shoes, and handbags. She was the last surviving member of the group who cut the ribbon at the opening of the Pembroke Park Church of Christ building. Irene’s generosity and love for family and friends was one of her defining traits. She never missed a birthday, making sure each of her family members felt remembered and cherished, often through heartfelt cards and phone calls. Her kindness lived in the way

she listened, the way she showed up, and the way she made everyone feel special. She never met a stranger and never went anywhere empty-handed. Whether offering freshly made juice, a handmade shawl, a thoughtful card, candy, or a small gift, she gave freely and joyfully to everyone she encountered. On Monday, March 23, 2026, she departed this life peacefully and went on to glory surrounded by loved ones. Her life was filled with compassion, laughter, and unwavering love. Her vibrant spirit and joyful energy will forever be remembered. She leaves her children to cherish her memory: Osbourne (Winifred), Tass (Georgia), Sebert, Lornette (Geoffrey), Rachel, Cleveland (Mavis), Marian, Newton, and Gloria; her brother Vernal (Jennifer); many siblings on her father’s side; and a large and loving extended friends and church family. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Debra, Sophie, Cylena, Damion (Veronica), Andrea (Carl), Karlene, Tass Jr. (Tracey), Mark (Leslie), Robert, Tadjique (Zaria), Jason, Taneish, Quwayne, Charlie (Karma), Steve, Ashley, Kendra (Nathaniel), Melissa, Rushane (Nicole), Damali, Shanice, Patrice, Shawn, Saude, Joshua, Mikayla, Brianna, McKenna, 27 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, friends, two adopted children, Jimmy and Gwelola, and beloved church members. Irene’s life was a testament to faith, strength, and unconditional love. May her legacy continue to inspire all who knew her.