Irene Walker

Iva Irene Rice Walker, 89, died peacefully in her sleep May 7, 2020, at Hugh Chatham Nursing and Rehabilitation in Elkin, NC, where she had received excellent care for declining health and dementia.  Irene was the youngest of eight children born to Frederick and Martha Rice of Grundy, VA.  Her parents and siblings have preceded her in death, as well as, her husband of 35 years, Howard F. Walker, and their infant daughter, Faith.  Irene is survived by four daughters: Pat, Judy, Betty, and Sandy, as well as, thirteen grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.  After Irene's children completed their education, she obtained her high school diploma and then attended college herself.  She owned and operated a hair salon for years and then worked as a store manager in Richmond before she retired at age 73.  She also served in her church, teaching children, for a number of years, which is probably the accomplishment for which she would most like to be remembered.  Due to the limitations of numbers for public gatherings at this time (COVID-19), a memorial service will be held at a later date.  Moody Funeral Services of Mount Airy is serving the Walker Family.