Mrs. Irene Gertrude Finley Morris, 84, of Cape Charles, peacefully passed away on Nov. 30, 2023.
Irene was born on Dec. 30, 1938, to the late James and Gertrude Finley in Topeka, Kan. Irene and the love of her life and lifetime partner, Philip Joseph, were married for over 50 years.
First and foremost, the most wonderful and dedicated mother, grandmother, and wife, Irene was also the most professional and dedicated worker for all her life. She especially excelled in bookkeeping and office management. In her over 20-year tenure at the Virginia Eastern Shore National Wildlife Refuge Fisherman Island, Kiptopeke, she was instrumental in the development of the Eastern Shore Nature and Wildlife Center, building partnerships with the Navy and the refuge, assisting local watermen and fishermen, and leading nature tours.
Her charismatic personality and strong communication skills benefited many regional nonprofit board organizations and helped in their successes. In her eight-year term as president of the Cape Charles Woman’s club, Irene led and managed the Cape Charles annual July 4 parade and Christmas decorating competition. She was also an active Lions Club participant, influential in the building of the Northampton County Park in Cape Charles, active in the county animal adoption program, active member of the Cape Charles Historical Society, Rotary Club supporter, and proactive Post 56 American Legion member in Cheriton.
Irene was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Robert. She is survived by her husband and blessed with three lovely children, Barbara Ives (Glen), Linda Herbert (Mark), and Philip Morris (Megan); six grandchildren, Glen Christopher (Elizabeth), Matthew Francis (Amanda), John Alexander, Alexandria Irene, Anastasia Arlene, and Ayla Claire; and five great-grandchildren, Asher Samuel, Glen Michael, Gregory Angelo, Grant Hogan, and Aiden Edward.
Please join her family and friends in the celebration of her wonderful life on April 13, 2024, at 1 p.m. at St. Charles Catholic Church in Cape Charles with Father J. Michael Breslin officiating.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.doughtyfuneralhome.com
Arrangements were made by Wilkins-Doughty Funeral Home in Cape Charles.
