Obituary of Willie Jean Irvin

July 10, 1937 - June 11, 2019

Willie Jean Irvin.  Age 81 of Oscoda. 

Willie “Jean” Little was born on July 10, 1937 in Clarksdale, Mississippi. She was the only child of Cpl. Jasper and Leora Little. She grew up in Chicago, Illinois where as a young adult she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior through the Catholic faith. She attended James R. Doolittle Jr. Elementary School and graduated from Wendell Phillips Academy High School.

“Jean” was a strong believer in hard work and education as is evident in the encouragement given to her children to pursue their educations and enjoy successful careers. Jean, herself joined the workforce as a teenager having worked as a nursing home attendant, a clerk at Spiegel’s, a head cashier at an Air Force commissary, and a clerk at financial institutions. She was always aspiring to increase her knowledge taking advantage of online courses and was an avid reader.

“Jean” met and married her childhood sweetheart, Robert Irvin. They have three beautiful children. She was a devoted wife and mother and enjoyed being in their company as much as time and distance would allow. “Jean” found enjoyment in many activities and the company of her many friends. She loved to travel with friends and family and would put the wind at her back at a moment’s notice.

She was an avid bowler having been on a couple of teams at the same time. She truly enjoyed the yearly bowling tournaments that allowed her the opportunity to travel with her teammates/friends to various destinations. She was very skilled at playing BINGO, being able to play her cards and keep an eye on ours as well, making sure that we did not miss a number.

Jean was also a member of the Red Hats where she found friendships and enjoyment in helping others in her community. Jean also enjoyed casinos trips and did well on every given opportunity. We all shared in her joy as well. “Jean” peacefully passed away June 11, 2019. She was preceded in death by her husband, SSG Robert James Irvin Sr. She leaves to cherish her memory: three children, Robert Jr. (Susan), Avis (Julio), Chimene; grandchildren: Anita (Markus), Jenise, Marcus, Antonio (Janet), and Rasheed; great grandchildren: Anisha, Anthony, Steven, Antwon, April, Natalia, Jalen, Antonio Leonardo and Roman; and great-great grandchild: Jeremiah. Nieces: Sharon and Sheila; great nephew: Nathaniel; cousins: Keshia and Laretha and a host of extended loving family and friends.