September 10, 1925- January 26, 2024

Remembering Irene

On September 10, 1925, Edwin and Emma Dillard Griffin welcomed the birth of their daughter, Irene Edith Griffin. Irene was better known as Geechie and Granny. She was born in Tabb (York County), VA where she received her education in the York County public school system. She had five brothers (Walter, Garfield, Otis, Alphonso, and James) and five sisters (Dorothy, Alice, Sarah, Ophelia and Mary).

Irene embodied the best of qualities: unconditional love, strength of spirit, and unending generosity that could be seen in her care for everyone around her.

Irene was married to Arthur Roosevelt Furby, and their union was blessed with the birth of their two sons, and four daughters.

Irene was employed by Bill Forrest Seafood in Poquoson, VA. Where she spent many years working.

In her spare time, she enjoyed looking out the window, and spending time with her grandkids. Her favorite shows were Walker, Texas Ranger, Law and Order, judge shows, and WWE.  If you were to call on a Monday, or Friday, Irene would talk briefly, and let you know she had to go because WWE was about to come on.

A wonderful soul, infectious personality, a smile that would brighten the whole room, and stylish in dress are just a few of the characteristics that best describe Irene. Irene was very soft spoken, but when she spoke, everyone would stop to listen.

On Friday, January 26, 2024, Irene Edith Furby departed this life here on earth, and went to rest in eternal peace. Irene left behind family and friends who will cherish her memory, and count it as a blessing that the Lord saw fit to grant us her for 98 years. Irene is proceeded in death by her husband, Arthur Roosevelt Furby, Sr, and her oldest son, Arthur Roosevelt Furby, Jr. "Bunny". She leaves behind to cherish her memories, her sister Ophelia Dennis of the Virgin Islands; her youngest son Edward Furby of Newport News; her four daughters, Paulette Sedgwick (Wilbert) of Hampton,  Lottie "Ann" Savage of Newport News, Christine McBride ( Charles) of Newport News, Edith Perrin ( Drew) of Newport News; a special friend Charmaine Jackson; extended daughter Frances "Charlotte" Brown; and a host of nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, cousins, and other loving relatives and friends.

Her departure comes as a deep wound, and it is gravely felt by her entire family and countless others who will miss her deeply.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 AM Saturday, February 10, 2024 at Zion Prospect Baptist Church, with a funeral service following at 11 AM with Pastor Walter C. Johnson officiating.