Irene Booker 86 of Champaign passed away at 8:15 a.m. Sunday, April 3, 2011 at the Tuscola Healthcare Center, Tuscola. With sad hearts and tearful eyes we say good bye to the best Mother, Sister, Aunt, Grand Mother, Great Grand Mother, Great Great Grand Mother and Friend. Born in Norton, Virginia in 1925, attended St. Charles High School class of 1942.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, April 7, 2011 at the Renner-Wikoff Chapel and Crematory, Urbana; Pastor Mark Elliott will officiate. Burial will be in the Anderson Memorial Park Cemetery, Anderson, Indiana. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

She is survived by her daughters Pat Friend, Sue Bohlen (Alex), Millie Lyons (Corey) Champaign and her sons Sheldon (Cookie) and Wendell (Judy) both in Baltimore, Maryland, Winston (Chrystal) - Arizona and Thomas also in Illinois. Also by 21 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and 3 great great-grandchildren and step grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was a loving and caring mother; she always put her children first in life. We have truly been blessed to have such a wonderful mother, she will be deeply missed. Irene was adored by her family, friends and all that knew her. They are comforted by the knowledge that she is once again having coffee with her loving sister Iva and eating friend green tomatoes with Franky Ray and Dorothy.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be given to St. John Lutheran School (Library), 509 South Mattis Ave. Champaign, IL 61821.

Condolences may be offered at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.