Virginia L. Ireland

Virginia Lee Ireland, 95, went to Heaven on December 13, 2024, from her home in Roswell, NM with family by her side. She was born in Kismet, KS, to Gustav and Gertrude Bayha. She lived in Morton, IL for 27 years, Buena Vista, CO for 25 years and Roswell, NM for 8 years. She graduated from Friends University, Wichita, KS, with a BS in Education. She edited the school paper for I year and was also the "Yearbook Queen". She sang in their vocal choir, " Singing Quackers" for 2 years. She taught school for 6 years total in KS, IL, and TX. She was a member of Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria, IL where she was active in Daily Vacation Bible School, taught Sunday School, and was President of Preschool Mother's Club and also President of School Age Mother's Club. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Gerry, and "stay-at-home mom” to her three children. Prayer was her special time, and she prayed for many others' needs. On August 18, 1952, she married Gerald Ireland in Fowler, KS and supported the family for 3 years until he graduated and got a job. She loved to travel and saw all 50 States plus England, Wales, France, Italy, China and Australia. On the lower 48 travels, she was an avid navigator with the map on her lap, always ready for the challenge. She also loved interior decorating our home for special events and seasonal changes. She was a master gardener for many years, enjoying indoor and outdoor plants. Virginia is survived by her husband, Gerald B. Ireland; children: Jan Alverez (Steve), Dale Ireland (Robin), and Kurt Ireland (Debi); grandchildren: Max Ireland (Shelby), Asa Ireland (Katie), Nick Alvarez, Gabriel Alvarez, Jack Alvarez, and Bethany Alvarez; and sister, Naomi Mueller. Virginia was preceded in death by parents: Gustave and Gertrude Bayha; siblings: Jay Bayha (Alethea), and Helen Sarle (Nick); along with nephew, Michael Mueller. Virginia’s family suggests donations be made to Focus on the Family, Colorado Springs, CO, in honor of her. She went to Heaven under hospice care at home, peacefully! A special thanks to Gentiva Hospice and the wonderful care provided, especially by Roberta, Crystal, and Ed Meyers. No memorial service is planned.

Virginia L. Ireland

June 27, 1929 - December 13, 2024