Irene (Bryan) Long, 103, of Gaston, IN, passed away Friday, August 28, 2009 at Ball Memorial Hospital, Muncie, IN after a short illness. She was born on May 31, 1906 in Gaston, IN, to the late Frank and Sarah Alice (Carpenter) Bryan.
Irene graduated from Gaston High School in 1924. On March 10, 1928 Irene married George Kirtley. Mr. Kirtley passed away in 1942. Irene later married Byron Long on February 12, 1949. Mr. Long''s passing was in 1987.
Irene has been a member of Gaston United Methodist Church for many years. Irene was employed with Collegiane Store in the village at Ball State as an alteration associate. Irene loved to crochet, sew, and make quilts and afghans. As well, she was an excellent pie maker and talented dressmaker. And most of all, Irene loved spending time with her family.
Surviving relatives include her loving son, Charles Kirtley (wife: Norma Jean); step-son Carl Long (wife: Doris); and step-daughter Regina Edwards, all of Gaston; grandchildren Cinda McKibben (husband: Greg); Terry Kirtley (wife: Sandy); Jerry Kirtley (wife: Dianne); Julie May; Jim Kirtley (wife: Kim); step-grandchildren Diane Marshall (husband: Bob); Janet Ellis (husband: Barry); Steve Reed; Rex Thomas (wife: Debbie); Connie Mauck (husband: Mike); Ron Thomas; Chris Long (wife: Leslie); Larry Long (wife: Glenda); 13 great-grandchildren; 14 great-great grandchildren; 1 great-great-great grandchild; 18 step-great grandchildren; 18 step-great-great grandchildren; and best friend since 6th grade, Vera Markins of West Layfette.
Irene was preceded in death by her parents; 1st husband George Kirtley; 2nd husband Byron Long; step-daughter Rosemary Reed; step-granddaughter Kim Long McCarty; 3 sisters; and 1 brother.
Funeral services will be at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, September 1, 2009 at Gaston United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in The Thompson Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday, August 31, 2009 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Gaston United Methodist Church as well as one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. Memorial contributions can be made to Gaston United Methodist Church on behalf of Irene. If you would like to sign the online guest book and send condolences to the family, you may do so by visiting www.gardenviewandgardensofmemory.com.