Irene Willis (nee Ledford), a devoted mother, grandmother, loving sister and aunt, passed away on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the age of 81. She was born on October 27, 1941 in Frakes, KY, to Magnolia (nee Miracle) and Harve Ledford.

Irene was the adored mother of her only child, Gloria (Nick) Trajkovich; beloved grandmother of Michael (Lauren Pusateri) Trajkovich and Morgan (Brian) Fahey; dear sister to Elden Ledford, Hazel Duncan, Eva Partin, Brenda Smith, Floyd Ledford, Phyllis Blackburn, Linda Partin, and Rose Jordan; a treasure to Sandy (nee Trajkovich), Scott and Rachel Gerami.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her infant son Dwayne Willis; her husband of 59 years, Ephraim Willis; and her brother, Joseph Ledford.

Together Irene and Ephraim moved from Kentucky to Illinois where they raised their daughter and built a life they could have only dreamed of.

Irene will be remembered for her love of family, the mountains of Kentucky and being a coal miner’s daughter. Her memory will be forever cherished and she will be deeply missed. May her light continue to shine in our hearts forever.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 5, 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM at the Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 44 S. Mill St., Naperville. A celebration of Irene’s life will follow at 11:30 AM at the funeral home. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Hoff Rd., Elwood, IL 60421, (815) 423-9958.