Irene Elizabeth Derby

October 24, 1926 - May 25, 2019

Irene Elizabeth Derby, age 92, of Albia, passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2019, at Monroe Care Center in Albia. Irene was born on October 24, 1926, in Bussey, IA, to Alfred and Grace (Lennie) Villont. She grew up and attended school in Bussey. On May 29, 1943, she married Leo Leslie Derby in Lancaster, MO. Irene and Leo shared 61 years of marriage prior to his passing on September 25, 2004. Irene was a homemaker while raising her son. She was a member of the First Christian Church in Albia, where she was very active in Bible studies and other church groups. Irene loved her animals. Above all, she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Irene is survived by her son, William Derby of Arizona; 3 granddaughters, Jacinda, Carissa, and Sabrina; and 8 great grandchildren. Irene is also survived by several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leo Derby; her parents, Alfred and Grace Villont; and 7 brothers, Alfred, George, Arthur, Bill, Raymond, Clarence, and Jack Villont. A funeral luncheon will be held from noon-1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2019, at the First Christian Church in Albia. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2019, at the First Christian Church in Albia, with Irene's family present to greet family and friends. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2019, at the First Christian Church in Albia, with Pastor Lynda Carlson officiating. Burial will follow services in Oak View Cemetery in Albia. Memorials may be made to the First Christian Church in Albia.