Irene Melson Grimes, 91, of Newport News, went home to be with her Lord and to be reunited again with her bereaved loved ones on February 15, 2021.

She was born in Newport News on August 17, 1929, the last surviving of 10 children born to the late George E. Melson and Ela C. Melson . She was also the widow of Carl Anthony Michael, Sr. and Warden Lee Grimes, Sr.

Irene enjoyed bird watching, loved flowers and gardening - "diggin' in the dirt". She truly cherished and deeply loved her family and her dear friends. Irene enjoyed helping those in need, she cherished spending the holidays and special occasions with all those she loved. Irene also loved taking a little time out for "a good old chocolate milkshake".

Our family wishes to expresses a special thank you, to the entire staff at Regency Health and Rehab, in Yorktown, for caring for our Mother during her final journey.

Irene is survived by her children, Carl Anthony Michael, Jr. ( Maria), Lawrence Michael, Warden Lee Grimes Jr. , Susan Irene Dei (Michael Lynch); and her grandchildren, Janis L. Michael, Kimberly M. Grasty, Alexandra Dei, Christina A. Flora, Catherine I. Largena and Michael C. Grimes. Irene also leaves behind her cherished "Great Grandbabies", Raven Grasty, Sierra Knowedi, Nadia Jacobs, Gavin Place, Camryn Russell, Brooklynn and Adalynn Flora, Isabella and Caleb Largena to continue her legacy; and leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

"Lordy, Lordy", we will deeply miss her spark, her tenacity, her smile, her warm hugs and her beautiful blue eyes.

The funeral service and burial at Hampton National Cemetery are private.

If wished, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Irene's memory, to either the Peninsula Food Bank at www. hrfoodbank.org, or to Bethany Baptist Church, 173 Louise Dr., Newport News, VA 23601.

Arrangements by W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home, 210 Harpersville Rd., Newport News.