Irene Bailey Drew

Irene Bailey Drew, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, peacefully departed this world on October 12, 2026, at the age of 94. Her passing was graced by the presence of her devoted son, James, who was by her side in the comfort of her home. Born on October 8, 1932, in the serene town of Hampton, Arkansas, Irene was the cherished daughter of Mary Lou (nee Pumphrey) and Willie Frank Bailey, Sr. She was predeceased by her loving parents, her loving husband of 58 years, Jesse Drew, Jr., her brothers James, Gus, Ted, Luster, Jesse, and Willie Jr., her sisters Zelmarie, Katherine, Rubye Lee, and Ruth, and her sons Charles Gannaway, Gregory Drew, Wayne Drew, and Tony Drew. Irene's life was a tapestry of love, courage, and kindness. She embraced life with an open heart and a generous spirit. After attending Hampton High School, she embarked on a journey that touched countless lives through her work and passions. As an entrepreneur, she dedicated herself to caring for and nurturing children, creating a haven that was always full because of her exceptional ability to connect with both children and parents. Her life was enriched by hobbies and interests, including church activities, playing Bingo, gardening, traveling, and piecing together vibrant jigsaw puzzles. Irene's zest for life showed in her sharp memory and fearless curiosity about the world. She was a woman of unwavering faith, having accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior at a young age. Alongside her siblings, she was baptized in the cool waters of a local Arkansas lake, and she continued to share her testimony and praise with all who would listen. Irene's legacy is carried forward by her surviving family: her sister, Sadie Taylor; brothers LeRoy Bailey and Charles Bailey; her sons Robert Earl Bailey and James Junior Bailey (Judy); her nine grandchildren, Tavares, Pamela, Marreya (Daniel), Jessica (Eurick), Joe, Waynshawn, Kaylan, Sentrayle, Preston; and her thirteen great-grandchildren, including Jaylen, Ethan, Jolene, Josiah, Tavares Jr., Leanna, Keynan, Derron, Kevin, Eur'Mone, DrewBella, Eur'Miah, Denzel, daughter in-law, Ollie Drew and a host of nieces and nephews. Her family remembers Irene as a woman who loved unconditionally, who taught invaluable life skills, and who was a masterful storyteller. Her wisdom, courage, financial savvy, independence, and high work ethic were hallmarks of her remarkable character. She found joy in traveling, especially by plane, always choosing the window seat to marvel at the world below. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate nurses, doctors, and oncologists at MercyHealth Oncology (Fairfield, OH); AdventHealth Hospital in Mission, Kansas; hospice caregivers at Phoenix Home Care and Hospice; and Dr. Jennifer G. Hines, Dr. Zayne Belal, Kenneth Grigsby, Reverend and Mrs. Kenneth Pegue for their dedicated care and support. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you donate to a charity of your choice, in Irene's spirit of generosity and care for others, especially children. Irene Bailey Drew's life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and resilience. Her memory will forever remain a source of inspiration and strength for all who were blessed to know her.