Irene Estelle Blake Brown was born December 25, 1927 in Bedford Va. She departed this life, February 2, 2020 at South Roanoke Nursing Home. Irene was the oldest of five daughters, born to the late Clint and Mattie Blake. In addition to her parents; Irene was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas J. Brown, Sr.; three sisters: Hazel, Arlene and Mary; a daughter- in-law, Mary C. Brown; a son-in-law, Robert H. Johnson and her granddaughter, Erica S. Lee.

On November 22, 1951, Irene married Thomas J. Brown Sr., of Thaxton, Virginia. To this union they were blessed with six children. She resided in the local area until eight months before her death. Her loving husband, Thomas, preceded her in death March 1972.

Irene worked as a dedicated employee at Rubatex Corporation for 27 years. She worked tirelessly to raise their six children after the death of her husband. In spite of sometimes adverse weather conditions, she'd walk in snow drifts up to her waist to go to work. She was determined to provide for her children. She was equally dedicated as a member of Western Light Baptist Church and adopted her husband's church, Oakmulgee Baptist Church.

Aside from being a dedicated employee, Irene was a dedicated homemaker. Her children remember delicious home cooked meals made from scratch, baked goods and a immaculately clean house. Friends fondly remember those qualities as well. She eagerly helped friends and neighbors when needed.

After retiring, Irene continued to enjoy family and friends, baking and cooking. She also enjoyed chatting for hours on the phone, watching TV and working crossword puzzles.

Irene had a BIG heart and she was as genuine as they come. Her funny jokes and boldness brought joy and laughter to all. She was the epitome of a strong independent woman and lived a long fulfilled life. As the family matriarch, she will be greatly missed. She believed and looked forward to the promise of the resurrection hope found in John 11:25:

"The one who believes in me will live, even though they die;..."

Left to cherish her memory: three daughters, Deloris Johnson, Deborah Martin (Glen), Ellen Walls (Mark); Three sons, Thomas J. Brown, Jr. (Thesrez), Larry T. Brown, Arthur L. Brown and friend(Brenda); grandchildren: Andre Johnson, LaShawn Johnson, LaToya Odems, Jeffrey Brown, Glenda Knight, Anthony Brown, Gail Brown, Michele Steinmann and Angela Butler; one sister Georgia Bryant; There are many special nieces, nephews, and many other family members and friends.