IRENE STAFFORD

Irene Stafford, 84, of Wichita, KS passed away on August 1, 2015 at her residence surrounded by family. She was born on June 6, 1931 in Theodosia, MO the daughter of Bea and Minnie (Johnson) Kelley.

On August 14, 1950 Irene was united in marriage to Tony Stafford in Yellville, AR. To this union three children were born, Anita Kay, Debbie and Mike. Irene and Tony moved to Wichita over 40 years ago. Tony preceded her in death in 2000.

Irene has been the centerpiece of the family. She enjoyed all her time with them. She loved cooking and made everyone feel special with their very own pie. At all the family gatherings, everyone knew that they would have their favorite pie made just for them…. in some cases an extra one would be made to take home. Often times she would have to start baking a week in advance, but she wouldn't have had it any other way. If there was anything Irene loved more than making sweets, it was eating sweets. There was no doubt she had a huge sweet tooth!!
Irene also loved to crochet and embroidery. She was a very giving person who would welcome anyone into her house. Friends and strangers were all welcomed alike, and given a hot meal and place to stay if needed. She was just that kind of loving and caring individual. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents Bea and Minnie Kelley and her husband Tony Stafford. She is survived by three children: Anita Kay Larson and husband Richard of Denver, CO, Debbie Sharpe of Wichita, KS and Mike Stafford and wife Lisa of Dora, MO; six grandchildren: Tony Larson & Jennifer, John Larson & Sammi, Misty Titus & James, Jason Titus & Nicole, Cody Stafford & Hollie, Lacey Belcher & Derek; sixteen great grandchildren: Johnathan, Timmy, Bryce, Mandy, Jacob "J.J.", Mia, Migel, Caleb, Nathan, Kayla, Ashlynn, Hailey, Brayden, McKenzie, Valarey, and Kenneth; numerous other children who referred to her as "Grandma"; and three siblings: Jerlene Newton, Samuel Coy Kelley and Troy Kelley all of Dora, MO.

Funeral services are Wednesday, August 5, 2015 at 10:00 in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home chapel, Gainesville, MO with Richard Martin officiating. Burial is in the Ball Cemetery near Dora, MO. Visitation will be Tuesday evening, August 4th from 7-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Ball Cemetery and left at the funeral home. Arrangements are by Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.