Irene Ward Elkins, beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed from this life and entered heavenly gates on Monday morning, June 23, 2014 at the home of her daughter, Sandra Newell in Louisa, Virginia.

Born May 15, 1915 in Craigsville, she was a daughter of the late Arthur K. and Esta Ward. Also preceding her in death are two daughters, Patricia Higginbotham and Carol Ball; one grandson, Terry Ball and one granddaughter Billie Yeager.

She is survived by her children, James(Martha) Elkins, Jean Farley, Sandra Newell, Marilyn Cook, Sherry (Mandy) Cabell, Judy (Jack) Lett, Betty (Don) Farro, Cheryl Dembowski, Paul (Charity) Elkins, and Karen(Dave) Rothan; Sister, Pauline Ranson; and brother, Vern Ward. She was blessed to have many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Irene was retired and formerly self-employed, and when her health allowed she attended church. She was a devout Christian; reading and studying her Bible was a daily part of her life. She enjoyed traveling, sewing, making wreaths, beading and anything chocolate. One of her biggest joys in life was to make and give her beads to family members and friends. She will be sadly and greatly missed.

Funeral service will be held 1 p.m. Friday, June 27, at Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar with Pastor Craig Gee and Gary Tucker officiating. Entombment will follow in Grandview Memorial Park, Dunbar.

Friends may call from 11 a.m. until service time at Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.