May 25, 2023, 99, Chocowinity –

Irene Johnson Futrell, 99, peacefully passed away on Thursday, May 25, 2023, at her home. Born in Wayne County on March 24, 1924, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Dewey Johnson and Mary Ellen Gurley Johnson.

In addition to her parents, Irene was preceded in death by her husband, Rodney Earl Futrell; daughter, Linda White Futrell; sisters, Pauline Johnson, and Ruby Beamon, and twin sister, Christine Beamon; and brother, William D. Johnson.

Irene is survived by her sons, Rodney Keith Futrell (Barbara) and Joseph Arthur Futrell (Lynne); grandchildren, Rodney “Lee” Futrell, Brian Futrell, Emily Futrell, Eric Futrell (Allison), Joseph “Derek” Futrell (Lauren), and Jared Futrell; great-grandchildren, Addison, Jonathan, Avalyn, and Hallie Futrell.

Irene was a member of Union Grove Free Will Baptist Church in Fremont. She had worked as an insurance clerk for many years with Wayne Memorial Hospital.

Irene loved to cross stitch and was an avid baseball fan. In her high school days, she played basketball in the 1938-1939 and 1940-1941 school years. Irene also played softball her entire high school career from 1937-1940. She was awarded first prize in a fashion show in the 1939-1940 school year.

A graveside service to celebrate Irene’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 2, 2023, at Wayne Memorial Park with Rev. John Massengail officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Union Grove Free Will Baptist Church in Fremont.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.