A Celebration of Life Service for Sister Irene Chaney James, 82, was held Saturday, December 17, 2022 at 12:00 noon at St. John Baptist Church in Ward, AL with Rev. Jimmy Johnson officiating. Interment followed in the Mt. Mariah Baptist Church Cemetery.

Irene Chaney James was born on June 17, 1940 to the late Booker T. Chaney and Fannie M. Chaney. She peacefully entered eternal rest on
December 11, 2022 at her home. She waspreceded in death by her parents, Booker T. and Fannie M. Chaney; brothers, Booker T. Chaney, Jr., James R. Chaney, Spencer Chaney; one sister, Annie Pearl McNeely; and a great grandson, Kingston Zane Williams.

At an early age, Irene joined the Ward Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church where she served faithfully for many years. She later joined her husband,
George, and became a member of Mt. Mariah Baptist Church where she served faithfully until her health failed. She served as Choir President, as well as various other duties within the church. She was also a member of the Golden GateChapter #513 Order of The Eastern Star.

Irene taught in the Choctaw County School System for 30+ years. During that time, she was not only an educator, but a mother figure to many children. She even took children home with her at times. She was a pillar in the community and loved by many.

She leaves to cherish her memories: five children, Calvin (Vickie) James, Sr., Angenetta (Murray, Jr.) Ford, Eddie (Areia) James, Sr., all of Ward, AL, Demetris (Sherita) James, Sr., York, AL and Jennifer (Danny, Sr.) Coleman, Moundville, AL; nine grandchildren; two step grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; siblings, Jessie (Walter) Williams, Thomas Chaney, Sr., Leroy (Faye) Chaney, Ida Thomas, David (Lizzett) Chaney, Sr.., and Dardia Burke; and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, other relatives and friends.